KIDH’s research tests gain international seal of approval

TANZANIA— The Kibong’oto Infectious Diseases Hospital (KIDH) in Siha, located in the Kilimanjaro Region, has secured international accreditation for 52 of its research tests.

This recognition, awarded by the Southern African Development Community Accreditation Service (SADCAS), highlights the hospital’s commitment to maintaining exceptional standards in healthcare.

The hospital’s director, Dr. Leonard Subi, credited this achievement to the substantial investment made by the government in KIDH.

He explained that this investment, amounting to billions of shillings, has enabled the development of a state-of-the-art laboratory capable of conducting advanced research and testing.

When SADCAS evaluated the hospital’s services, they were impressed with the quality and efficiency of operations, which eventually led to the accreditation.

This accomplishment is particularly remarkable given the relatively short period since KIDH first sought accreditation in 2018.

Initially, the hospital received accreditation for just four research tests. However, through consistent improvements and a focus on quality and safety standards, this number grew to 28 by 2022 and will reach 52 in 2024.

Dr. Subi emphasized that this growth reflects years of dedication from the hospital’s staff and ongoing governmental support, which SADCAS officials acknowledged during their visits.

Dr. Subi also highlighted KIDH’s expertise in various fields such as clinical chemistry, serology, mycobacteriology, parasitology, and microbiology.

He stated that this recognition not only enhances Kibong’oto’s international reputation but also demonstrates their readiness to address various health challenges effectively.

Adding to this sentiment, Dr. Shaban Mziray, KIDH’s laboratory manager, remarked on the significance of this achievement for both the hospital and Tanzania’s health sector as a whole.

 He noted that having an internationally accredited facility reduces the need to send samples abroad for testing. Instead, patients can now receive timely and accurate results locally.