UNFPA handed over four ambulances and two coordination vehicles to the Ministry of Health, Zanzibar to strengthen referral systems and to reduce the delays that prevent pregnant women accessing appropriate care.

Dr. Hashina Begum, Deputy Representative, UNFPA said: “Two ambulances and some equipment are part of the joint programme implemented by UNFPA supported by the Government of Canada and UNICEF – a project dubbed “Afya Bora Project”, others have been supported by UNFPA through different programmes.” 

Dr. Hashina reaffirmed UNFPA's commitment to furthering development in Tanzania saying: “Let me again reaffirm UNFPA's commitment to the Government of Tanzania in their national development efforts, particularly in the areas of reproductive and maternal health, including young people’s sexual and reproductive health, gender equality and generating data for decision-making. Working together we can accelerate the reduction of preventable maternal, newborn and child deaths in Zanzibar and in Tanzania.”

The ambulances were earmarked to support referral services in Mnazi Mmoja Hospital, Makunduchi, North A and Mkoani District as requested. The two pick-up vehicles are for the coordination of reproductive, maternal, newborn and child health services in Unguja and Pemba.

The medical equipment will be distributed to various health facilities, particularly those facilities refurbished by the Afya Bora Project. These include Tumbatu Gomani, Fuoni, Seblen, Bogoa, Uwondwe and Junguni. Most of these facilities are located in rural areas.