Tasaf project ends surgical services struggles for Kishili residents
Mwanza. Residents of Kishili Ward in Nyamagana District can now access surgical services closer to home following the completion of a modern operating theatre at Fumagila Health Centre.
The newly built facility, part of a broader initiative supported by the Tanzania Social Action Fund (Tasaf), has eliminated the need for long-distance travel to major hospitals such as Nyamagana District Hospital or Sekou Toure Regional Hospital for surgery.
The project, implemented in collaboration with the local community, included the construction of three key buildings: an Outpatient Department (OPD), an Inpatient Department (IPD), and a fully equipped operating theatre. All buildings are currently operational and serve residents of Fumagila, Kanenwa, and neighbouring areas.
Speaking during a visit by the National Spouses of Leaders’ Union (New Millennium Women Group) on Thursday, June 26, 2025, Fumagila’s Medical Officer In-Charge, Dr Amani Haruna, said the infrastructure had transformed service delivery in the area.
“Previously, pregnant women in need of emergency Caesarean sections had to be rushed to Butimba or Sekou Toure hospitals. Today, we are able to perform surgeries right here. The burden on families has been significantly eased,” said Dr Haruna.
According to him, the project started on March 30, 2023, and cost more than Sh452.7 million. Of that, community members contributed labour and materials valued at Sh18.9 million, while the remaining funds came from Tasaf.
Villagers assisted with tasks such as digging foundations, transporting water, and supporting technical workers.
From dispensary to health centre
Established in 1986 as a small dispensary with just two buildings and the capacity to serve 40 patients a day, Fumagila was officially upgraded to a health centre on February 12, 2025.
It now comprises nine buildings and handles around 80 patients daily—a number expected to rise as services expand.
The facility currently has a team of 30 staff, including 11 medical doctors, 10 nurses, a pharmacist, a radiology technician, an anaesthetist, a laboratory technician, three health attendants, and three infection control officers.
Leaders’ spouses laud development
New Millennium Women Group chairperson Tunu Pinda praised Tasaf for its role in improving healthcare services in the region, especially for expectant mothers.
“It is hard to imagine that only two buildings once served nearly 3,000 people. This expansion is a true game changer,” she said.
Kanenwa Ward Chairman, Mr Makoye Mashauri, echoed the sentiments, noting the facility has experienced rapid growth. He said monthly patient visits have increased from about 200 to between 2,000 and 3,000 due to population growth.
Peace call ahead of elections
During the visit, members of the New Millennium Women Group urged citizens to maintain peace ahead of the 2025 general election, noting that political unrest tends to affect women and children the most.
The group encouraged citizens to elect capable leaders at all levels and commended the government for its achievements, including the expansion of Fumagila Health Centre.
In addition, the group donated 25 gas stoves to Tasaf supported local food vendors, aimed at promoting clean cooking and supporting small-scale livelihoods.
