A NEW fundraising campaign has been launched to treat children suffering from gastroschisis and anorectal malformations—rare birth anomalies affecting the anus and rectum respectively.

The initiative, spearheaded by Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH), event planner Toto Day Out and local media house EFM, aims to raise 200m/- through a marathon scheduled for December.

Speaking at a press conference in Dar es Salaam yesterday, Dr Zaitun Bokhary, a paediatric surgeon at MNH, noted that the hospital receives five to seven new patients with the complications each week. In least developed countries, the conditions have an almost 100 percent mortality rate.

“The issue is significant; on average, about eight children are born with these anomalies per week in the country,” she said.

Dr. Bokhary highlighted that the Lake Zone is one of the most affected regions, followed by Kigoma and Tabora in the western regions.

 While the mortality rate for the defects stands at 100 percent in Tanzania and other Sub-Saharan countries, developed nations report 100 percent survival rate due to advanced treatment methods.

Infants with gastroschisis often suffer from intestinal dysfunction and prolonged exposure to amniotic fluid can cause further injury.

 However, progress has been made in Tanzania with the introduction of silo bags—soft protective coverings that have contributed to reduced mortality rates.

Dr Monicah Apollo, Head of Paediatric Department at MNH, explained that the exact causes of the conditions are unknown. In the past, nearly all children born with such defects would die.

“Thanks to advances in technology and research, new solutions are emerging,” she said. She also noted that traditional healers have exacerbated the problem with myths surrounding the defects.

Dennis Busulwa alias Ssebo, Director of Marketing at EFM, emphasized that the campaign is unprecedented. It seeks to raise awareness about the birth defects and the importance of proper prenatal care to help prevent them.