PROJECTS OF THE HOSPITAL
The risk factor of deliveries is high because of the lack of accessible medical help. The situation is also complicated by the vast distances and lack of communication in many areas. Mother Shelters for pregnant women are a huge help. Since complications are not always predictable, the only way to insure a safe delivery is to be near a birthing center.
Zambia is a country with one of the highest HIV-infection rates. To prevent transmission of the AIDS virus from the mother to the child, women are treated with medication during the pregnancy and delivery. The rooms of Mother Shelters are available for expectant mothers who may be infected with AIDS or foresee complications with the delivery. A draw-well with clean water is also part of the infrastructure. All of this helps lower the mortality rate for mothers and infants.
Continuous Education of Specially Trained Personnel
Another step is to create a location with the necessary equipment to help train hospital personnel and to improve the medical and nursing care of the hospital. What we take for granted as normal medical care is unheard of in Zambia.
Farming Projects and Nutrition
The shortage of sources of protein in the diet is a huge problem in Mpanshya and its surroundings. Except for chickens and a few pigs, there are no domestic animals. Hunting has been made illegal, in favor of tourism and the preservation of wildlife. Hunting, today means poaching...
Therefore, a farming project has been started by Benjamin Furrer, veterinarian and son of Drs. Mathias and Kathrin Furrer. The goal is to promote raising domestic animals and to show people its potential. Some of the projects consist of raising cattle and fish, and producing goat’s milk and cow’s milk. Another project is about how to use oxen for plowing and pulling, etc. This project also includes teaching animal care and treatment.
In 2009 the Nursing School in Mpanshya opened. After completing their regular studies, students with good grades can attend this school for two years and are trained to be nurses and orderlies. This training will enable them to work throughout Zambia. In 2012, the best graduate nationally was from Mpanshya!