Mwanza — KCB Bank has donated state-of-the art medical equipment including ultrasound machine and printer to Mwanza-based SDA Health Centre, to boost maternal and child health in Lake Zone regions.

The medical support that envisages improving care for expectant mothers across the regions was presented during a function at the centre over the weekend. Ilemela District commissioner Amina Masenza, Nyanza Arch Bishop Joseph Bulengela and KCB branch manager Joseph Njile were among those who attended the handing over ceremony.

"With the help of these machines, we will be able to provide clearer and more precise imaging for gastroenterology, neurology, oncology, orthopaedics and general surgeries-with over 3,000 such examinations done at the health centre, annually," said Dr Joseph Kajiru, the hospital's senior medical officer.

KCB manger, Mr Njile said the bank has spent 15m/- on the equipment to fulfill the promise it made to Mwanza residents last year during the tour of the minister of State in the President's Office for Social Relations and Co-ordination, Mr Steven Wassira.

"I'm so delighted that the new machine has arrived and is ready for use," said Mr Njile. An expectant mother, 28-year old Adela Misana appreciated the support, saying with such state of the art equipment, she was assured of safe delivery. "I am truly grateful for the machine... it will boost delivery of health services in Mwanza."

Arch-Bishop Bulengela thanked the bank for the donation, promising that the machines will be effectively used to improve health service provision to Mwanza residents in particular.

"These machines will have huge contribution to the extra care and safe deliveries of our patients, especially expectant mothers not only from Mwanza but from the whole of the Lake Zone."