Maseru
History was made once more in the country with the official opening of the Maseru District Hospital. The inauguration took place at the Maseru District Hospital (former Queen Elizabeth II) premises on 13 June 2024.
Several dignitaries including the Prime Minister attended this grand opening with their presence to show their support in the completion of this magnificent new height. The Maseru District DMO Dr. Moseme Makhele imparted the issue of lack of health service. There is a dire need for improvement of the rendering of health services. It will cater to the coordinationof services amongst hospitals and accelerate service delivery.
A WHO spokesperson highlighted the significance of this milestone as one which will enhance health care services for the people of Lesotho. Basotho will now have access to quality and equitable services. In addition to clinical services, the hospital will foster health services which extend beyond individuals. A high number of complex cases will be handled which will in turn reduce crowding which tamper with the quality of services. She said she looks forward to the positive impact to be brought by hospital.
Chair of Social Cluster Committee Honorable Mokhothu Makhalanyane in his remarks stated the hospital is an indication of the results of cooperation and collaboration with different sectors working under the governments of Lesotho and China. In February this year, it seemed as though the project was going through a tough time, and they had to come together to resolve the matter, and this is where they realized the importance of collaboration.
He appreciated the contribution made by the Prime Minister through the Ministry of Health which enabled them to complete their mandate. He further implored saying the standard of the building and equipment should encourage expansion throughout the country i.e. if the north and south regions could have their own big, structured hospitals. He ended by saying the cancer center is to be completed despite hinderances if everyone pulls their weight.
The Mayor of Maseru, Mr. Motlalepula Sepipi expressed his gratitude towards both governments. He stated health as a priority and concluded by saying management should ensure good, quality services. Principal Chief of Matsieng, Prince Seeiso Bereng Seeiso conveyed similar sentiments where he said the services should resemble the beauty of the walls and he ended by thanking all those who were in involved in the project.
Remarks by Charge d’ affairs Mr. Lyu Liangzhong of the Embassy of China comprised of knowledge there has been construction of ten functional buildings. He says the hospital is a symbol of a longstanding friendship between Lesotho and China which will also elevate Bastho’s well-being. He thanked Shanghai’s construction for their contribution. He also said there are more than 200 Basotho who have been enrolled in an exchange program where they attended training in China since last year which is in line with this project.
A representative from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs demonstrated faith in the lasting impact the hospital will have on the lives of Basotho. He said this occasion would strengthen the bilateral ties. There will be a significant reduction in the cost of travel incurred by patients when they have to travel to South Africa to seek medical assistance. He acknowledged the role in Lesotho’s development which is vital, and he hopes more relations such as this one will continue to be forged.
The Minister of Health Honorable Selibe Mochoboroaneindicated the day will be marked as a historical day for Lesotho. He shared how the first to the fifth coalitions with all its leadership contributed to the success of the project. He said they will ensure quality services as expected because quality equipment has been availed for all departments. He reiterated the statements which say Basotho should be in a position to be taken care of and nursed back to health in their country. He said he hopes this will be an opportunity to curb the statistics of HIV and TB in Lesotho. He completed his remarks by emphasizing the importance of good service delivery.
Honorable Nthomeng Majara gave a brief account explainingthe hospital will be twinning with China’s Wuhan hospital. She pleaded to everyone to put good use to the hospital which she referred to as one of ‘state of the art’. The last speaker of the day was Prime Minister Sam Matekane accompanied by the Little Prime Minister Thato Sello who appealed to the nurses and doctors to devote their time and efforts to the hospital and to do their level best.
The Prime Minister said he expects patients to be treated with empathy and love. He said the hospital will deliver services such as ophthalmology, dialysis, dermatology, ICU, cancer tests etc. He encouraged the sharing of knowledge between Wuhan and Lesotho. He gave the final words of gratitude to the past leaders who made it possible.
