Specialist doctors arrive in Songea for free treatment drive, where are you?

SONGEA: IN a rare case where the doctor actually comes to the patient (instead of the other way around), residents of Songea District in Ruvuma Region have been advised not to sit on their ailments or wait until the next generation inherits their back pain.

Why? Because topnotch doctors have just landed in town and they are here to heal. Through the Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan “Tiba Mukoba” Outreach Services Programme, a team of 20 medical specialists has been deployed to Songea to provide free, yes free, healthcare services to locals – from the heart of the town to its most remote hamlets.

During a press visit on May 27, 2025, District Commissioner Wilman Kapenjama Ndile was all smiles (and possibly a bit relieved too) as he explained that this is the third time Songea is lucky enough to host this traveling band of white-coat heroes.

“We Are not talking about your everyday flu clinic,” he said.

“These are elite medical professionals from Tanzania’s best referral hospitals – Muhimbili, Ocean Road, Mloganzila, Bugando, KCMC, Mbeya Zonal Referral, Milembe and others. And each one is a specialist. I mean, these doctors are so sharp they probably do surgeries in their dreams.”

And it Is not just about stethoscopes and white coats. “We have got paediatricians, gynaecologists, orthopedists, kidney specialists, mental health experts-you name it! They are all here. And they have even brought highly trained nurses who might just rival your favourite auntie when it comes to tender care,” DC Ndile quipped.

The team began delivering services on May 26 and will continue until May 31, 2025, stationed across various district hospitals and health centres.

So, if you were planning to visit your local herbalist or just wait and “see what happens,” the DC has a message for you: “Don’t miss this golden opportunity.”

A presidential prescription for progress

Ndile took a moment to tip his hat to the government, especially under the visionary leadership of President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, for prioritising public health in both policy and practice.

“The Tiba Mukoba initiative is just one of many ways our President is transforming healthcare from a privilege into a right-even for the farmer in the most remote village who once had to travel 100 kilometres just to get his blood pressure checked,” he said.

In fact, the government has already built 50 dispensaries across Songea’s 56 villages and work is underway to ensure that the remaining six don’t miss out.

“Soon, you will be able to get treatment right in your own backyard. No more using boda-boda rides as ambulances!” Ndile joked.

But the impact goes beyond Tanzania’s borders. “People from Mozambique and Malawi are now crossing over to be treated in our hospitals.

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When’s the last time you heard of a Tanzanian going to Malawi for treatment? Exactly,” the DC said with a grin. Locals aren’t taking the opportunity lightly. Johnson Ngonyani and Imelda Elias, both from Songea Municipality, couldn’t hide their appreciation.

“This is a blessing,” said Ngonyani. “Some of us have conditions that have been waiting patiently to be diagnosed. Now, with these specialists in town, we don’t have to wait another year or guess on Google.” Imelda nodded in agreement.

“It’s comforting to know that if you’re found with a serious condition, you won’t be left in the lurch. You’ll be referred immediately to a bigger hospital. It’s reassuring.”

Apparently, even diseases are now under pressure. With such a medical cavalry in town, any lingering illness might want to quietly pack its bags and leave before being evicted.

A nationwide healing tour

Dr Louis Chomboko, the ever-energetic Ruvuma Regional Medical Officer, confirmed that this outreach is part of a nationwide programme.

Ruvuma had its first round in May 2024, followed by a second in October of the same year. And now, here comes round three because Tanzanians deserve consistency in care, not just lucky breaks. “Not every patient can afford to travel to Dar es Salaam or Moshi,” Dr Chomboko said.

“So, we’ve flipped the script if the mountain can’t come to Muhimbili, Muhimbili comes to the mountain.”

According to him, the current medical delegation includes not only doctors but a senior nurse and six core specialists in gynaecology, paediatrics, surgery, anaesthesia, internal medicine and ENT (ear, nose and throat). It’s practically a mobile hospital, minus the elevators.

“This is a golden opportunity literally. You’d have to pay a fortune for these services in a private hospital. But here, they’re free. Just bring yourself, your medical records if you have them and maybe a smile,” said Dr Chomboko.

In wrapping up, both the DC and the RMO emphasised the importance of local leadership and community cooperation.

“If you’re a local leader and you’re not supporting this effort, we might need to check your pulse,” joked Ndile.

From arranging transport for remote villagers, to helping patients navigate the queues, community leaders are being called upon to ensure that no one is left behind.

“Let’s not let this week pass by like just another event. This is a health revolution one thermometer at a time,” Dr Chomboko added.

Don’t let ailments hide

So, whether it’s that back pain you’ve been blaming on your mattress, or the headaches you say are just from “too much sun” this is your moment.

The doctors are here, the facilities are set and the treatment is free. All that’s missing is you. As the Swahili saying goes, “Afya ni mtaji” health is wealth.

So, Songea residents, come claim your share. Because while diseases may not take holidays, now at least, healing is making house calls.