The container arrived at the Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC) at the beginning of May. Due to the endless rainy season, the real work had to wait a while. In Moshi, “unpacking” often means doing it by hand, outside, together with dozens of people. But it seems that all the COWs have arrived in good condition. So that’s good news!

View the first images on LinkedIn here:

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/mwika_cows-worden-in-gebruik-genomen-bij-kcmc-activity-7347966004922081280-l6HY

Preparing for use

COWs put into operation at KCMC

After an impressive journey of more than 7,500 kilometres by sea and another 600 kilometres by land, a special container recently arrived in Moshi, Tanzania. Six weeks after departure, the container could finally be opened and the unloading of the valuable goods began. It was a moment that had been eagerly awaited by everyone involved at Mwika, ZGT Overzee in Twente and De Baanderij in Gouda. Thanks to their joint efforts, countless medical supplies, donated by various sponsors, could be shipped to the Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC).

One of the most striking items in this shipment are the so-called COWs – Computers on Wheels. These mobile workstations come from hospitals in The Hague and are now being given a new lease of life in Tanzania. The COWs enable doctors and nurses to consult and record patient data digitally, directly at the bedside. This is a major step forward for the efficiency and quality of care within KCMC.

Collaboration and future plans

Preparing for transport was a meticulous process: each COW was partially dismantled, securely packed in polystyrene and plastic, and carefully prepared for the long journey. In total, more than eighty units were shipped, the first ten of which will soon be put into service. During the upcoming visit to Moshi in November, a pilot project will be launched to test the systems in practice.

This large-scale project is a fine example of cooperation between Dutch and Tanzanian partners. Without the support of many sponsors, donors and volunteers, this would not have been possible. Their commitment, resources and trust have ensured that the COWs will soon contribute to better patient care at KCMC. A wonderful result of international cooperation and commitment.

Thanks to everyone

Thanks to everyone On behalf of Dr. Salah (Head of Nursing) and Dr. Masenga (CEO of KCMC), we would like to thank everyone who helped make this project possible. From colleagues in Dutch hospitals to those involved behind the scenes: your efforts make a big difference to healthcare in Tanzania. Thank you very much!

Stay informed

Would you like to see more of the project? Follow us on LinkedIn for updates, photos and the continuation of this wonderful collaboration. We will keep you informed!