Hundreds benefit from MNH free dental camp

DAR ES SALAAM: MUHIMBILI National Hospital-Mloganzila has successfully concluded a special medical camp for the examination and implantation of artificial teeth, during which around 30 patients underwent modern dental implant procedures.

This groundbreaking initiative marks a significant milestone for public healthcare services in Tanzania, as it is the first time such an advanced dental care, including dental implants, has been offered in a public hospital.

Over 200 patients were examined during the camp, with many presenting dental challenges such as tooth decay, gum disease, missing teeth and misaligned teeth. Following comprehensive assessments, approximately 30 patients underwent modern dental implant procedures.

A specialist in oral and dental health, Dr Peter Shempemba said the camp was crucial and it shows the critical need for such services in Tanzania.

“Statistics show that a staggering 66 per cent of people lose their teeth for various reasons, creating a high demand for dental restoration,” he said

“By introducing dental implants, we aim to provide affordable and accessible treatment to Tanzanians, reducing the need for them to seek these services abroad,” he added.

Meanwhile, A Neurosurgeon, Prof Huh Seung Kon from Seoul, Republic of Korea, has commended the leadership of MNH-Mloganzila for its significant reforms and improvements in enhancing healthcare services in Tanzania.

Prof Huh expressed his appreciation during a visit to the hospital, where he met with the management and specialists working in the Neurosurgery Department. He had served at the hospital for almost four years before returning to South Korea in 2022.

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In response, the Deputy Executive Director of MNH-Mloganzila, Dr Julieth Magandi, thanked him for the visit, which continues to boost the provision of specialised services at the hospital for the benefit of Tanzanians.

Dr Magandi further said that the facility continues to benefit from Prof Huh’s expertise. For instance, three nurses went to South Korea for short-term training and another three are currently receiving training there, all sponsored by Prof Huh.

Prof Huh first came to Tanzania in December 2019 and left in 2022. During his tenure, he equipped specialists in the Neurosurgery Department the much need skills and helped establish advanced surgical techniques, such as removing brain tumours through nasal passages, a modern method that has significantly improved neurosurgical procedures at the hospital.

MNH continues to introduce new, specialised medical services that were previously unavailable in Tanzania. This reduces the inconvenience and high costs for citizens who would otherwise seek treatment abroad, contributing to the government’s goal of improving local healthcare infrastructure.