From 27-28 June 2024, the Newborn Essential Solutions and Technologies (NEST360) program, implemented by the Ifakara Health Institute and its partners in Tanzania, is taking part in the 12th Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS) Scientific Conference, at the East African Center of Excellence for Cardiovascular Health, MUHAS Medical City, Mloganzila, Dar es Salaam.

Under the theme “Science as a Story of Life: The Power of Research, Innovation, and Collaboration in Improving Resilient Health Systems,” the NEST360 team is showcasing their work at a dedicated booth manned by skilled biomedical engineers from Ifakara and clinical nurses from Muhimbili Mloganzila, all under the NEST360 Program.

The booth features various life-saving technologies developed and implemented by the program. The team is providing visitors with comprehensive insights into the program's initiatives and advancements in neonatal care.

The MUHAS Scientific Conference serves as a platform for sharing knowledge, fostering collaboration, and driving forward the agenda of health research and innovation. As the conference continues, the NEST360 team remains dedicated to engaging with attendees and exchanging ideas to further advance neonatal health in Tanzania and beyond.

Students from Muhimbili, Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology (DIT) join

NEST360 has established skills labs at Muhimbili National Hospital and the Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology (DIT). These labs are furnished with advanced technologies, enabling doctors, nurses, clinical officers, and technical staff to learn and practice various newborn care techniques in accordance with Tanzania’s guidelines. The training encompasses hands-on learning and real-life application of newborn care equipment.

In a collaborative effort, the NEST360 team was joined by students from the skills labs at MUHAS and DIT. These students helped welcome guests and demonstrated the use of various tools. Additionally, students from DIT’s Design Studios presented some of their projects, bringing an exciting element of youth innovation to the event.

About NEST 360

Newborn Essential Solutions and Technologies (NEST360) is a global consortium committed to reducing newborn deaths by 50% in hospitals, currently conducted in Tanzania, Kenya, Malawi, and Nigeria. The program is an evidence-based model for sustainable health system change to close the gaps in technology, markets, and human resources for the implementation of quality hospital-based newborn care on a national scale.

In Tanzania, the NEST program works in close collaboration with the Ministry of Health, to improve the quality of comprehensive newborn care units as stipulated in the National guideline for neonatal care and the establishment of neonatal care units.

Phase I of the program started in late 2019 in three tertiary hospitals i.e., Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH Upanga), Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH Mloganzila) and Mbeya Zonal Referral Hospital. Implementation at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC) started in February 2022. The three regional referral hospitals in Dar es Salaam i.e., Mwananyamala, Amana and Temeke started implementation in 2020. The tertiary hospitals will be the ‘learning hubs’ to ensure mentorship and supportive supervision within the selected regions.