Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – 23rd November 2024 –Today, The Aga Khan Hospital, Dar es Salaam, commemorated World Prematurity Day with a moving event dedicated to families who have faced the emotional and physical challenges of caring for premature babies. While the global observance of World Prematurity Day falls on November 17th, the hospital hosted this special event earlier, highlighting the theme: “Over 13 Million Babies Born Prematurely Every Year: Access to Quality Care Everywhere!”
The event celebrated the resilience, strength, and courage of families impacted by the early arrival of their babies. Parents and caregivers shared heartfelt stories of their journeys—navigating struggles, cherishing the triumphs of their babies’ growth, and emphasizing the urgent need for accessible neonatal care. These testimonials brought to light the significant progress in neonatal care while also underscoring the persistent gaps that leave many families without the critical support their premature babies need to survive and thrive.
“Every day, approximately 500 babies are born prematurely in Tanzania, and these infants represent the majority of those who tragically die within the first month of life. To prevent these needless deaths, ensuring universal access to quality neonatal care is essential.”
Dr. Yaser Abdallah, Neonatologist, Aga Khan Hospital, Dar es Salaam
As we observe World Prematurity Day 2024, we stand in solidarity with families across Tanzania and around the world who are affected by preterm birth. At Aga Khan Hospital, Dar es Salaam we are reminded of the urgent need for Access to Quality Neonatal Care for every baby, no matter where they are born, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to providing the highest standard of care for premature infants, ensuring they have the best possible start in life.
Together, we continue our efforts to raise awareness and support families through every step of their journey. Let us unite in the mission to give every preterm baby a healthier, brighter future. These sentiments were echoed by Mr. Sisawo Konteh, CEO of Aga Khan Health Service, Tanzania, during his speech at the event.
The event also included opportunities for networking, education, and discussions about the future of neonatal care, with experts offering insight into the latest innovations and challenges in caring for premature infants. Attendees were encouraged to share their experiences and contribute to the conversation on how to improve care for these vulnerable babies.
A powerful call to action was made, urging everyone—healthcare providers, policymakers, and communities—to unite in ensuring that quality neonatal care becomes accessible to all babies, everywhere. Together, we can fight for better outcomes for premature infants and their families worldwide.
About AKHST:
Aga Khan Health Services (AKHS) stands as one of the pivotal agencies within the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), dedicated to advancing health initiatives. Operating as a private, not-for-profit organization, AKHS has established itself as an integrated health system spanning across Tanzania. It boasts robust linkages and partnerships with the Government of Tanzania, primarily through the Ministry of Health, alongside other key national and international stakeholders. The organization comprises two hospitals located in Mwanza and Dar es Salaam, along with 22 Outreach Health Centres (OHCs) spread across 13 regions of mainland Tanzania, and an additional facility situated in Zanzibar Island.
For more information, please contact:
Geofrey Anael
PR Coordinator,
Aga Khan Health Service, Tanzania
+255 654 540 226
geofrey.anael@akhst.org