GHM Volunteer Consultant Making an Impact in Tanzania

Premie receiving care in ALMC NICU

I was honored to be asked by Global Health Ministries to go to the Arusha Lutheran Medical Centre and accompany them as they provide for the healthcare needs of this northern Tanzania community. A city of one million people, Arusha is close to Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro, both of which were created by volcanic activity and are now dormant. Visitors come from all over to climb these mountains or go on safaris, an important part of Arusha’s economy.

Jerry with Hospital Administrator Dr. Kivuyo

A large portion of the people in Arusha are under-resourced, and they have many needs. That’s where ALMC comes in. This 140-bed hospital and clinic was created by Mark Jacobson, MD, a long-time medical missionary, and Thomas Laizer, Ph D, the first bishop of the North Central Diocese of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Tanzania. Since their passing, ALMC has faced financial, staffing, patient census, physical plant, and other challenges. The ELCT, as well as a talented and dedicated staff, are working tirelessly to secure a bright future for ALMC. GHM is a critical part of this team, providing supplies, needed equipment, and personnel at the request of the church and hospital management.

The efforts that we put into partnering with ALMC will be in vain, however, unless we concentrate those efforts on the most important component — the patients. We can have the best equipment, building, and supplies, but if they aren’t what the patients need, we will fail. Today, we are looking for partners to work with us who will serve the people of Arusha, provide for their needs, for the glory of God. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions, concerns, or suggestions by sending a note to jerry@hoganson.net.