Accessing healthcare in the remote islands of Lake Victoria has long posed significant challenges for residents. In 2017, Zaitun, a 54-year-old mother of two, faced a life-threatening illness, relying solely on traditional remedies due to the absence of nearby health facilities and her limited financial resources. Her condition deteriorated, and she might have lost her life if it weren’t for the arrival of the MV Jubilee Hope vessel—a critical medical resource funded by Geita Gold Mining Limited (GGML) and various stakeholders.
Launched on October 2, 2014, by Princess Anne, the MV Jubilee Hope is a dedicated medical ship that provides services to over 10 larger islands and more than 50 smaller ones across Lake Victoria. The establishment of this vessel was made possible through the support of the Vine Trust, which purchased it, with GGML covering operational costs while the AICT Church oversees its activities. Since its inception, the ship has emerged as a beacon of hope for island residents, delivering essential healthcare services that would otherwise remain inaccessible.
Zaitun’s story is just one among the 500,000 residents who have benefited from the ship’s services. After enduring months of declining health, she sought assistance from the ship after hearing about its medical capabilities from her neighbors. Living with HIV since 2010, she had lost all hope by the time she boarded the vessel, believing she was nearing the end of her life.
Upon testing, Zaitun was shocked to learn she was pregnant, a revelation that filled her with joy and gratitude. The doctors on board not only treated her but also provided critical advice on the importance of continuing her antiretroviral therapy (ARVs) to ensure her baby would be born HIV-negative. Following their guidance, she traveled to Bukoba for delivery, where she successfully gave birth to a healthy son, Yusuph.
“I believe that ship was sent by God to save my life. Just imagine what my situation would have been like if it weren’t for that vessel. Life on the islands is very challenging, especially regarding healthcare. This ship has been our true savior,” Zaitun reflects with deep appreciation.
Pastor Samweli Limbe, the coordinator of the ship’s operations from the AICT Church, notes that since its launch, the ship has served major islands such as Ikuza, Chakazimbwe, Mazinga, Bubile, Kerebe, Goziba, Butwa, Izumachele, Jumaa, and Nyamango when the ship docks at a major island, smaller neighboring islands send patients for treatment.
“When the ship arrives at a major station, it stays for 2 to 4 days, depending on the number of patients at that time. Over the ten years since it began providing services, the ship has treated more than 500,000 patients from these islands,” Pastor Limbe states, adding that the ship visits every island once a month before returning to Mwanza Port for servicing and restocking medical supplies.
The impact of the MV Jubilee Hope extends beyond individual stories. Simon Shayo, the Vice President for Sustainability and Corporate Affairs for AngloGold Ashanti’s Ghana and Tanzania business unit, emphasizes the importance of the partnership between GGML, the AICT Church, and the Vine Trust. “We believe our partnership has brought significant changes to individual lives, families, and communities impacted by the ship’s services,” he explains. Shayo recalls discussions about the second vessel, MV Lady Jean, and asserts Tanzania’s readiness to embrace further healthcare initiatives, underscoring the commitment to supporting health services in the region.
Mwanza Regional Commissioner Said Mtanda echoed this sentiment during the tenth-anniversary celebration of the MV Jubilee Hope and the launch of MV Lady Jean. He thanked the government for fostering a conducive environment for these partnerships and expressed gratitude to the organizations involved in the health service journey. “Vine Trust and GGML have heard the voice of the Lord calling you to serve Tanzanians through health services. We will continue to send you to assist the health sector for the benefit of the people of Mwanza and the Lake Zone,” Mtanda stated.
The launch of MV Lady Jean marks a new phase in healthcare development along the shores of Lake Victoria, enhancing healthcare delivery to island communities. It is expected to expand the range of medical services available and improve emergency response capabilities.
Residents of these islands have historically faced numerous health service challenges, often resorting to unregulated pharmacies or herbal remedies when medical care is unavailable. “That ship has saved many lives. If you feel unwell, you self-diagnose, thinking it might be malaria or typhoid. However, if you have a serious illness, it is very difficult to recover,” remarks Josia Marwa from Jumaa Island.
Josia further emphasizes the struggles faced by pregnant women who often find it nearly impossible to reach healthcare services in emergencies, particularly at night. Many end up relying on traditional birth attendants, leading to tragic outcomes when complications arise.
“Those who say this ship is a savior truly mean it; it has come to save our lives, and we are genuinely grateful,” Josia concludes with heartfelt gratitude.
The MV Jubilee Hope exemplifies the transformative power of targeted healthcare initiatives and the importance of collaboration between various stakeholders. Bridging the healthcare gap for island residents not only provides essential medical services but also instils hope and a sense of security in communities long underserved. The ongoing commitment from GGML, the AICT Church, and the Vine Trust continues to illuminate the path toward improved health outcomes, making a tangible difference in the lives of countless individuals in the Lake Victoria region.
Read More articles by Deus Bugwaya