Construction of a new heart clinic at KCMC in Tanzania is in full swing

At the Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Center (KCMC) in Moshi, Tanzania, work is well underway on the construction of a new cardiac clinic and a cafeteria for parents and caregivers. The project is being carried out with support from, among others, Wilde Ganzen in Amersfoort and many donors, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters from the Netherlands.

During a visit to the construction site, it became clear just how much progress has been made so far. Work has begun, and the site is bustling with activity as everyone works to complete the new facilities as quickly as possible.

A project with a long history

The first symbolic foundation stone for the project was laid on 11 November 2019, at exactly 11.11. This marked a special moment and seemed to pave the way for the construction of the new heart clinic.

Shortly afterwards, however, the situation changed completely. The coronavirus pandemic brought many activities to a standstill. Travelling to Tanzania was virtually impossible, and fundraising also became much more difficult. As a result, the project suffered a significant delay.

Despite this setback, the ambition to actually establish the heart clinic remained.

Construction is finally due to start in July 2024

After years of preparation and fundraising, construction could finally begin in July 2024.

That was a significant moment for everyone who has dedicated themselves to the project over the years. The work is now clearly visible, and, step by step, a facility is being built that could prove of great significance to the residents of Moshi and the surrounding region in the future.

Progress on the construction work is monitored regularly. This makes it possible to check whether the work is proceeding according to plan and to identify any areas where additional support may be required.

Strong support from Overijssel and Twente

A significant proportion of the funding for the project comes from Overijssel. In particular, many people, businesses and organisations from Twente and other parts of the province are involved in setting up the clinic.

The support of the people of Twente is of great value to the project. Thanks to donations, fundraising initiatives, committed volunteers, and sponsors, construction was finally able to begin.

However, the project’s financing is not yet fully secured; approximately another 100,000 euros is still needed to complete the construction.

That is why additional support remains important.

A heart clinic with a major impact

The new heart clinic could have a major impact on healthcare in this region of Tanzania. In the future, both children and adults with heart problems will be able to receive specialized care there.

The project is therefore not just about constructing a building. It is primarily about the opportunity to provide people with better health and a better future.

Quality cardiac care is far from a given everywhere. A specialized clinic at KCMC could ensure that patients receive treatment faster and closer to home.

Attention is also paid to parents and family.

A canteen is also being built next to the heart clinic. This facility is intended for, among others, the parents and family members of patients.

When a child or family member stays in the hospital for an extended period, parents and accompanying adults often spend a lot of time on the hospital grounds. A good place to eat, drink, and take a moment to relax can make a real difference.

This approach considers not only the medical treatment of patients but also the people around them.

Taking the final step together

After years of preparation, delays, and fundraising, construction is now clearly visible. This makes it a special moment for everyone who has supported the project.

The new heart clinic and canteen at KCMC are getting closer to completion.

With the help of donors, volunteers, companies, and organizations—including those from Overijssel—work can now begin on the final phase. Every contribution helps achieve the shared goal: better cardiac care for children and adults in Tanzania.