Zanzibar (Tanzania, East Africa): The UAE’s Big Heart Foundation (TBHF), chaired by H.H. Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, has introduced ‘TBHF-Aster Mobile Medical Services‘ on Zanzibar’s Unguja island, Tanzania. This initiative, a collaboration with Aster Volunteers, aims to provide essential healthcare to remote areas with limited access.
Dignitaries who attended the flag-off ceremony with H.H. Sheikha Jawaher Al Qasimi included Hon. Nassor Mazrui, Minister of Health of Zanzibar; Alisha Moopen, Managing Director, Aster DM Healthcare; Jaleel PA, General Manager and Head of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) at Aster DM Healthcare; Dr. Fatma Kabole, Deputy Director of Preventive Services and Health Education, Zanzibar; Dr. Mngereza Mzee Miraji, Principal Secretary, Ministry of Health, Zanzibar; and the TBHF team of officials.
During a meeting with the Minister of Health of Zanzibar and leading officials from Aster Healthcare, H.H. Sheikha Jawaher Al Qasimi emphasised that access to healthcare is a natural and fundamental right for every individual and nation. She stressed that it should be provided without barriers, especially for women and children. She noted that achieving this goal requires the collective effort of governments and entities capable of contributing and driving change. Sheikha Jawaher highlighted that the world bears full responsibility if even one child cannot access essential healthcare services.
Operating in eight countries since 2019, the mobile clinics have reached 178,740 people. This year, four new countries, including Zanzibar, Sri Lanka, and Nepal, have been added. The clinic plans to serve 20,000 people annually in Zanzibar, focusing on blood pressure, blood sugar, and other vital health checks. It will be supported by local partners, including the Zanzibar Ministry of Health and Muhimbili National Hospital.
The mobile clinic, powered by solar energy, also offers virtual consultations and health talks. This project is expected to uplift 250,000 lives over 10 years, ensuring access to healthcare for those in need, particularly women and children.
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