The Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI) in Tanzania is enhancing its healthcare services in partnership with Global Medicare, ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The upgrade involves strategic investments in healthcare infrastructure, advanced medical technology, and state-of-the-art equipment at JKCI-ALMC Hospital in Arusha. This move aims to improve healthcare service delivery and establish sustainable improvements in healthcare services for communities across Tanzania's Northern Zone.
JKCI Executive Director, Dr Peter Kisenge, stated that the preparations involve substantial investment in emergency medical services, sports medicine, diagnostic equipment, patient monitoring technologies, and enhanced capacity to provide specialised and super-specialised healthcare services. The partnership with Global Medicare has contributed significantly to infrastructure improvements and the acquisition of advanced medical technologies. Some of the new equipment is at various stages of delivery and installation at JKCI-ALMC.
Over TZS 8 billion has been invested in various improvements at JKCI-ALMC, including infrastructure rehabilitation, procurement of medical equipment, strengthening orthopaedic services, and the development of dedicated VIP rooms. Some of the VIP rooms are equipped with advanced facilities capable of supporting high-quality medical care and can be converted into Intensive Care Unit (ICU) facilities depending on patients' clinical needs.
The hospital is expected to receive advanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computed Tomography (CT) Scan, and Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory (Cath Lab) equipment, significantly enhancing its diagnostic and treatment capacity, particularly for cardiovascular conditions. JKCI is also deploying advanced patient monitoring technologies capable of detecting changes in vital health indicators.
JKCI-ALMC Hospital Director, Dr Tatizo Waane, stated that the hospital is committed to providing quality healthcare services to residents, football players, and international visitors expected to visit Arusha during the 2027 AFCON tournament. The hospital has undergone assessments as part of preparations to strengthen healthcare services during the continental football competition.
JKCI-ALMC already provides specialised healthcare services in various fields, including cardiology, neurosurgery, orthopaedics, and internal medicine. The hospital also provides healthcare services for children below the age of 18, including newborns and premature babies, alongside laboratory and other diagnostic services.
The investment at JKCI-ALMC goes beyond the 2027 AFCON tournament, with the improvements set to deliver lasting benefits to residents of Arusha and the wider Northern Zone. JKCI has established a special committee to coordinate and oversee the preparations, ensuring that all necessary healthcare services and facilities are in place before and throughout the tournament.
Key points
- JKCI partners with Global Medicare to upgrade healthcare infrastructure in Arusha.
- Over TZS 8 billion invested in improvements at JKCI-ALMC Hospital.
- Upgrades to deliver lasting benefits to residents of Arusha and the wider Northern Zone.
