THE government has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding access to quality healthcare services following the inauguration of the 1.8bn/- Nkasu Health Centre in Nkasi District, Rukwa Region.
Minister for Constitution and Legal Affairs, Dr Juma Homera inaugurated the facility this week, describing it as part of the government’s ongoing investment in strengthening healthcare infrastructure and bringing essential medical services closer to communities.
Presenting the implementation report during the ceremony, the health centre’s officer-in-charge, George Hemed, said the facility began operations in August 2023 after the completion of seven key buildings.
Since opening, the health centre has provided medical services to more than 90,000 people and successfully conducted 197 Caesarean section deliveries, significantly improving maternal and child healthcare services in the district.
Dr Homera said the government’s continued investment in constructing and upgrading healthcare facilities is aimed at ensuring wananchi have timely access to quality treatment without travelling long distances.
He noted that the new facility is expected to ease pressure on referral hospitals, improve emergency medical care and help reduce preventable deaths by bringing life-saving services closer to the people.
The minister urged healthcare workers to uphold professionalism, integrity and ethical standards in delivering services, stressing the importance of adhering to government directives and the medical profession’s code of conduct.
Residents welcomed the completion of the project, saying the health centre has transformed healthcare access by reducing the need to travel long distances for treatment, particularly for maternity, surgical and emergency services.
They said the facility has not only improved access to quality healthcare but also enhanced the wellbeing of residents in Nkasi District and neighbouring communities.
