ZANZIBAR’s First Vice President, Othman Masoud Othman has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving healthcare services across the island, highlighting the ongoing efforts to enhance medical infrastructure and support healthcare workers.

Othman made the remarks yesterday at a ceremony to lay the foundation stone for the construction of staff housing at Wete District hospital in Kinyasini, Pemba North Region.

The ceremony marked the ongoing celebrations of the 61st anniversary of the Zanzibar Revolution.

As part of the government’s broader plan to upgrade healthcare facilities, the Vice President emphasized that the new housing for hospital staff would improve the overall delivery of healthcare services. 

“This step is not only about improving the living conditions for our healthcare providers but also about enhancing the efficiency of medical services for the people of Zanzibar,” he said.

Othman, who also doubles as chairman of the opposition ACT-Wazalendo, stressed the importance of providing healthcare professionals with quality accommodation close to their workplaces. 

“The provision of housing near hospitals will reduce the challenges of long-distance travel, making it easier for doctors and other healthcare workers to provide timely care,” he said.

The Vice President also underscored the government’s commitment to ensuring that medical personnel have access to modern medical equipment and emergency services. 

“Our goal is to provide citizens with accessible healthcare services while reducing the impact of preventable deaths,” he said.

Furthermore, Othman called on the Ministry of Health to establish a clear maintenance plan for the new housing to ensure its longevity, given the significant investment required for construction. 

“It is crucial that these houses are well-maintained so that they continue to provide a conducive environment for healthcare workers to perform their duties,” he said.

In addition to the staff housing, the First VP urged the local community to make use of the hospital’s services by adhering to proper healthcare protocols. 

He emphasized the importance of preventative healthcare, encouraging residents to take steps to avoid preventable diseases, which would, in turn, lessen the burden on the healthcare system.

He also directed the Pemba North regional leadership to collaborate with the Ministry of Health in upgrading the access road to Wete District hospital. 

“Improving the road infrastructure will make it easier for patients, especially expectant mothers, to reach the hospital without difficulties,” he said, noting that easy access to healthcare facilities is critical for timely medical care.

The new staff housing will accommodate up to 16 families, offering much-needed support for medical professionals and their families, and is expected to improve healthcare delivery in the region.

Zanzibar’s Minister of Health, Nassor Ahmed Mazrui underlining the Ministry’s dedication to providing quality healthcare services and reducing maternal and child mortality rates. 

“This project is part of our broader efforts to create better healthcare environments for both providers and patients,” he said.

Pemba North Regional Commissioner, Salama Mbarouk Khatib commended the project as a significant step in the region's ongoing development. 

She added that this year alone, the region is set to launch 16 major projects, including infrastructure upgrades, which will significantly contribute to the region’s progress.

Miraji Mzee Mgereza,  Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health- Zanzibar  said that total cost of the housing project stands at 4.1bn./-.

The project is expected to alleviate challenges faced by medical staff at the hospital, improving both their living conditions and their ability to serve the community effectively.