Ten health visits later: Doctor Simon back in Tanzania
Tuesday 10 June 2025
After his tenth visit to Malaika Kids in Tanzania, Dr. Simon Cooper, a retired physician from the United Kingdom, has again seen over 140 children through our various programs.
"The children in the Children's Village are generally happy and healthy," Simon reports, "with steady growth in height and weight."
During his visit, Simon saw:
During his visit, Simon saw:
- 77 children in the Children's Village
- 48 children in the Relatives Support Program
- 15 children in the Reception Home
Although most of the children are healthy, Simon noticed minor medical issues in a few, such as the need for tooth extractions. In addition, several children live with chronic conditions, including brain injuries from birth and congenital abnormalities. They receive the care they need and are fully integrated into daily life at the Children's Village.
There are also currently three children with HIV, who are thankfully responding well to their antiretroviral treatment. Although USAID has discontinued its support, the availability of medication remains stable thanks to government subsidies. Simon suspects that the Gates Foundation, among others, has contributed to this.
The children at the Reception Home are generally healthy. However, one girl, with severe visual and hearing problems, remains a source of concern. Because medical solutions are lacking, she will soon move in with her older sister—a former Malaika Kid and now a social worker—who can provide her with a loving home environment.
The children at the Reception Home are generally healthy. However, one girl, with severe visual and hearing problems, remains a source of concern. Because medical solutions are lacking, she will soon move in with her older sister—a former Malaika Kid and now a social worker—who can provide her with a loving home environment.
Within the Relatives Support Program, Simon spoke with several families, including a mother who cares for her son with cerebral palsy and frequent seizures day and night. The boy is conscious but unresponsive and is fed only liquids. His mother continues to care for him tirelessly.
"The team in Tanzania responds quickly and effectively to health issues," says Simon. He expresses his appreciation for Village Manager James, who has built a close working relationship with the local hospital. He also praises the efforts of one of our mothers, who, as a certified nurse, provided first aid training to all staff.
We are grateful to Dr. Simon for his continued dedication and medical expertise. His visits help us better monitor and support the health of our children.
"The team in Tanzania responds quickly and effectively to health issues," says Simon. He expresses his appreciation for Village Manager James, who has built a close working relationship with the local hospital. He also praises the efforts of one of our mothers, who, as a certified nurse, provided first aid training to all staff.
We are grateful to Dr. Simon for his continued dedication and medical expertise. His visits help us better monitor and support the health of our children.
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