President Samia presents gifts to newborn mothers

ZANZIBAR: PRESIDENT Samia Suluhu Hassan has marked the 61st anniversary of the Zanzibar Revolution with a heartwarming gesture, presenting gifts to mothers who gave birth on the eve of this historic occasion.

The gift presentation ceremony took place at Abdalla Mzee Hospital, a referral facility in Pemba, chosen to represent hospitals across the nation for this special event.

The gift bags contained various items, including sanitary products and clothing for the newborns.

Speaking during the presentation, Ms Mwanaisha Juma Fakih, Director of Nursing and Midwifery, confirmed that all hospitals in Tanzania participated in the initiative, with a total of 82 babies (39 boys and 43 girls) born on the historic night in Zanzibar alone.

She assured that both the mothers and their newborns were in good health.

“This is a special gesture from President Dr Samia to commemorate the 61st Zanzibar Revolution. The newborn baby gift bags were distributed across all hospitals and Abdalla Mzee Hospital was selected to represent other facilities in Zanzibar. We are pleased to report that all the mothers and babies are doing well,” Ms Fakih said.

The director also conveyed President Samia’s heartfelt message, urging mothers to nurture and care for their children to help them grow into responsible citizens and future leaders. Ms Fakih further explained that between 40 and 100 births are recorded daily in hospitals across Unguja and Pemba.

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Speaking on behalf of other mothers, Ms Lela Juma Masoud expressed her gratitude to President Samia for the thoughtful gesture.

“We are delighted and grateful to receive these gifts on such a momentous occasion. This day will forever hold a special place in our hearts,” she said.

Zuwena Said Hemed, a nurse on duty in the maternity ward at Abdalla Mzee Hospital, extended her appreciation to both President Samia Suluhu Hassan and President Hussein Ali Mwinyi for fostering a conducive working environment for healthcare professionals.

She highlighted that such support enables healthcare workers to deliver quality services to citizens and encourages pregnant mothers to give birth in hospitals instead of relying on traditional birth attendants.