For the first time in many years, the corridors of the Zabzugu District Hospital echoed with excitement and renewed optimism. It wasn’t because of a new medical breakthrough or an official ceremony — it was because of a surprise visit.
Hon. George Lakoba Tanei, the District Chief Executive for Zabzugu, walked unannounced into the hospital on a quiet weekday morning. The visit formed part of his ongoing familiarization tour, but to the hospital staff, it was much more than that — it was historic.
“No DCE has visited this hospital in living memory,” said one senior staff member, her voice filled with both disbelief and appreciation. “This visit gives us hope that our challenges are finally being noticed.”
Inside the facility, Hon. Tanei met with the management team to listen to their concerns firsthand. From inadequate space to equipment shortages, the staff painted a candid picture of the daily struggles they face in delivering healthcare to the people of Zabzugu.
Among the pressing issues raised was the incomplete maternity block — a project started years ago but left hanging. The hospital’s leadership emphasized its urgency, noting that completing it would significantly improve maternal and child health services across the district.
Hon. Tanei’s response was measured but reassuring. He acknowledged the gravity of the situation and promised to work with relevant government bodies and partners to find sustainable solutions. “We must all work together to improve healthcare delivery,” he said. “This facility serves our mothers, our children, and our future. It deserves our collective attention.”
But for many, what made this visit stand out wasn’t just the promises — it was what followed. Within days, the DCE acted on one of the hospital’s immediate concerns: the lack of a proper car park.
Acting swiftly, Hon. Tanei facilitated the clearing of land near the mortuary to create a parking space for staff, patients, and visitors. For years, vehicles had been crammed into narrow spaces, creating congestion and obstructing movement within the hospital premises. The new car park, though simple, has brought visible relief.
The hospital’s Matron, speaking on behalf of management, could not hide her admiration. “He’s an action man,” she said with a smile. “We didn’t expect such a quick response. This shows true leadership.”
For many residents, these gestures have transformed how they view leadership at the local level. They see in Hon. Tanei a new model of engagement — one that listens, acts, and follows through. His style, they say, has rekindled confidence in local governance and the partnership between the District Assembly and community institutions.
Beyond the immediate fixes, the DCE insists his administration is focused on long-term improvements in the district’s health infrastructure. “Healthcare is not a privilege — it’s a right,” he remarked. “And every effort we make to strengthen our health system brings us closer to a healthier, more productive Zabzugu.”
As word of his visit and subsequent action spreads across the district, the Zabzugu Hospital story has become more than just a news item — it has become a symbol of responsive leadership.
And as one local elder beautifully put it, “A good tree is known by its fruits.” If that proverb holds true, then the fruits of Hon. George Lakoba Tanei’s leadership are beginning to ripen — right in the heart of Zabzugu.
By Issifu Alidu Laa-Bandow | zaaghana.com
