Malaria
Malaria remains endemic in Geita, the region ranking second in terms of disease burden in Tanzania. Tanzania is among the 10 countries in the world with the highest number of malaria cases and deaths accounting for:
- 3% of global cases
- 13.4% of cases in east and southern Africa
- 5% of global deaths
The fight against malaria remains a priority through advocacy, distribution of mosquito repellents, environmental vector controls and distributing mosquito treated bed nets amongst the workforces. As a result, cases of malaria declined 31.2% in 2020 compared to 2019 and the Malaria Frequency Lost Time improved by 35.7%. This is a significant improvement compared to 2018, where we recorded a decrease of malaria by 0.17% among employees and contractors.
Under the 2019 corporate social investment plan, the mine funded the roofing of 20 dispensaries, finished construction of 12 dispensaries, and built five new dispensaries at Nyakato, Mgusu, Ibanda, Bihegule and Nyakahengere.
Investing in health infrastructure in Geita District Council and Geita Town Council
Working with the Geita District and Town Councils, the mine has continued its intensive focus on healthcare infrastructure. To date, the company has spent over TZS 6.6 billion in healthcare projects. With over 150 projects focused on the healthcare sector, recent projects include:
- Roofing
- Completion of outpatient department (OPD) building/s
- Construction and completion of staff housing
- RCH buildings
- Wards
- Purchase of medical equipment, incinerators, placenta, ash pit and toilets
In 2021, the company invested in the construction of three new health centres: Kakubilo, Nyawilimilwa and Nyakagwe Health Centres.
In the 2022 and 2023 CSR Plan, the company embarked on the completion of dispensaries and health facilities yet to be completed so that these facilities can offer primary health care.