Tanzania has marked a significant milestone in its healthcare sector with the introduction of robotic-assisted neurosurgery at the Muhimbili Orthopaedic Institute (MOI), a development expected to revolutionize the treatment of brain, spine, and nerve disorders in the country.
MOI Executive Director, Ambassador Dr. Mpoki Ulisubisya, stated that the institute will start performing these advanced procedures this week using cutting-edge brain neuronavigation technology. The new system, known as the Brain Lab Neuro-navigation system, offers real-time guidance during surgeries, greatly enhancing accuracy and patient outcomes.
Speaking at the 11th International Conference of Neurosurgeons and Specialist Nurses held in Dar es Salaam on March 25, Dr. Ulisubisya described the initiative as a transformative step toward positioning MOI as a regional leader in neurosurgery.
“This marks a new era for us in treating complex neurological conditions. Thanks to the donation of this state-of-the-art technology by Weill Cornell University, we can now perform highly precise procedures right here in Tanzania,” Dr. Ulisubisya said.
MOI currently handles 95 percent of the country’s brain, spine, and nerve cases. With this new technology, the institute aims to significantly reduce the need for overseas referrals, targeting the remaining five percent of cases that previously required specialized treatment abroad.
Weill Cornell University Gets Gratitude to Support Tanzania
Dr. Ulisubisya also expressed gratitude to Weill Cornell University and Professor Roger Hartl for their long-standing partnership and contributions to strengthening Tanzania’s healthcare system over the past 16 years.
“We deeply appreciate Prof. Hartl and his team’s support. Their collaboration has been instrumental in building our capacity, and we look forward to continuing this valuable partnership,” he added.
Professor Hartl, in turn, thanked MOI for the recognition of his contributions and reaffirmed Weill Cornell’s commitment to supporting Tanzania through training programs designed to equip local doctors and nurses with advanced neurosurgical skills.
“MOI’s efforts to advance neurosurgery and provide world-class treatment are commendable. We are dedicated to supporting their mission by offering continuous training and resources to ensure Tanzanians receive the best possible care,” Prof. Hartl said.
Dr. Laurent Mchome, Director of Neurosurgery Services at MOI, highlighted that Tanzanian specialists have already received specialized training in the U.S., preparing them to handle complex surgical procedures with the new system.
Meanwhile, conference coordinator Dr. Hamisi Shabani emphasized the importance of the annual Global Neurosurgery Course, run in collaboration with Weill Cornell, which focuses on continuous training and innovation in brain and nerve surgery for Tanzanian healthcare professionals.