Tanga region has received a total of 97.9bn/- for the construction of health facilities including hospitals, health centers, and dispensaries.

This was said by the Regional Commissioner, Ambassador Batilda Burian, during the opening of Mama Samia Eye Clinic, which provides eye care services for two days in Muheza District, sponsored by the non-governmental organization Mo Dewji Foundation.

"As a region, we have received 97.9bn/- solely for the health sector. We have managed to build 72 dispensaries, more than 23 health centers, six new hospitals, renovate three district hospitals, and make other improvements," said Dr Burian.

The coordinator of eye care services from the Mo Dewji Foundation, Amina Ramadhan, said that in one day, they managed to register 1,800 citizens with eye problems. Over the three days they will be providing services, the number will surpass that, and they will be able to reach up to 2,000.

She said that the Muheza camp is the seventh this year, and a total of 26,000 citizens have received services in camps held in various areas, with the activities continuing every month.

A total of 1,800 citizens have undergone cataract surgery in the seven camps that have been held.

Speaking during the event, some elders requested the government to continue improving health services, especially in providing treatment for eye problems. 

They also praised the eye clinics being conducted in communities, as they have helped citizens receive services quickly and in a short time.

"Please keep the services well organized, people are happy to come and find out that they are being treated for free. Honestly, I am very happy; you go to see the doctor for a short time, and all the necessary services are provided without needing to stay overnight. We should praise the government for this," said Mariam Wandi (90), a resident of Muheza District, Tanga Region, who explained how she received eye care, including cataract surgery, which she previously feared due to the cost.

She explains that her challenge was having a cataract, poor vision, and itching, but she was afraid to go to the hospital because of the costs, as her financial situation is limited.

"I had two daughters, one was a prison officer and the other a nurse, who used to help me, but both passed away at different times. That situation made me afraid to go to the hospital because I don't have insurance. When I heard that there were free services, I decided to come forward, and I'm thankful I was treated."

Similarly, Fatuma Mohamed (78), a resident of Tanga City, said she is grateful to the Mo Dewji Foundation for their services, as she had spent two years going to the hospital without success. However, with this service, she only spent 7,000/- on transport and was treated.

She emphasized that the government should ensure better services for the elderly, including those with eye problems who go to the hospital but receive unsatisfactory responses, which causes them to lose hope and remain with their problems at home.

A total of 4,640 people were screened during the two days of the event ended yesterday.