Chato Hospital launches reconstructive surgery clinic for Lake Zone residents

GEITA: CHATO Zonal Referral Hospital (CZRH) has launched a new Integrated Reconstructive Surgery Services Clinic aimed at improving access to specialised surgical services for residents across the Lake Zone regions.

The clinic is being implemented with financial support from Geita Gold Mining Limited (GGML), alongside specialist doctors and medical equipment provided by Rafiki Australia Tanzania.

Acting Executive Director of Chato Zonal Referral Hospital, Dr Oswald Lyapa, announced this during the clinic’s launch ceremony held in Chato District, Geita Region.

He said the clinic would be implemented in two phases, targeting a total of 120 patients in need of reconstructive surgery services, with 60 patients expected to benefit in the first phase and another 60 in the second phase.

He said the first phase began with a reconstructive surgery camp at Chato Zonal Referral Hospital on November 2nd and is expected to end on November 13rd, 2026.

“Through this clinic, patients requiring these services will undergo medical assessments and surgical procedures depending on their respective conditions,” said Dr Lyapa.

GGML’s Director of Health and Safety, Dr Kiva Mvungi, said the company has allocated about 200m/- to support reconstructive surgery services during both phases at the hospital.

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He said GGML’s participation in the initiative was driven by its commitment to supporting access to healthcare services, particularly reconstructive surgery, for people from all walks of life.

A representative of Rafiki Australia Tanzania, Dr Alexandra O’Neill, emphasised the proficiency cooperation in advancing reconstructive surgery services and improving the quality of life of people with demands.

She said the organisation supports the initiative by providing specialists with expertise in reconstructive surgery, as well as modern equipment required to ensure the successful delivery of the services to all eligible patients.

Representing the Chato District Commissioner, the Director of the Institute of Finance Management (IFM), Chato Campus, Dr Emmanuel Mtani, said the availability of specialised medical services would create opportunities for medical tourism.

He said access to these services would attract patients from different parts of the country and abroad to seek reconstructive surgery services at the hospital.