Recent NEWS
Trending
19 January 2025
The Zambia Flying Doctor Service (ZFDS) has once again demonstrated its commitment to saving lives by intervening in the case of a 22-year-old man from Mamba who was diagnosed with a rare and life-threatening medical condition.
The young man was first presented at Malima Rural Health Facility in Sinazongwe District during a ZFDS medical outreach program last month.
The outreach team, led by ZFDS Chief Medical Officer Dr. Tendai Mweemba, identified the critical state of the patient and facilitated his evacuation to Livingstone General Hospital for specialized treatment.
Dr Malan Malumani, Consultant Dermatologist at Livingstone General Hospital who attended to the patient, revealed that the young man arrived in a critical condition.
However, after the administration of life-saving medication and clinical observation, he has since been stabilized and discharged.
“He was in a very serious state when he arrived. Immediate treatment was crucial, and we are glad to report that he is now out of danger and has been discharged from hospital.
Without timely intervention, his condition could have been fatal,” said Dr. Malumani.
The physician noted that the patient’s condition, while rare, underscores the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.
“There are others in the community suffering in silence with similar conditions.
We urge them to seek medical attention early, as some of these conditions can be managed effectively with the right medication, even though they may not be curable,” he said.
The disease, believed to be a chronic inflammatory condition with immunological triggers, can be hereditary or triggered by factors such as food, alcohol, or infections.
Early intervention is key to managing its episodes and preventing complications.
At ZFDS,our duty is to ensure health care for all is achieved
Trending
14 January 2025
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On Tuesday,14th of January ,2025 ,The Zambia Air Force (ZAF) Commander, Lt Gen Oscar Msitu Nyoni visited the Zambia Flying Doctor Service (ZFDS) Headquarters at Zuze base in Ndola.
The ZFDS team led by Director Legal Services and Corporate Affairs,Mrs Luyando Mbilika-Shimalukwe was on hand to receive the ZAF delegation and discuss pertinent issues for enhanced collaborations.
Pictures courtesy of The Zambia Airforce.
Trending
31 December 2024
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As we step into 2025, we are incredibly grateful for the amazing work of our dedicated team. Your commitment to providing quality healthcare to every Zambian is truly inspiring.
We are excited for the year ahead and the continued impact we will make together.
Wishing you and your loved ones a year filled with joy, health, and prosperity!
#HappyNewYear #ZFDS #Zambia
With love
From the Entire ZFDS Board and all employees
Trending
29 December 2024
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In a remarkable turn of events, a 16-year-old girl from Sinasowa village, Sinazongwe District, who initially believed she was 17 weeks pregnant, was discovered to have a massive 1.3kg ovarian cyst instead of a developing fetus.
The discovery was made during a routine scan at Maamba General Hospital.
"I was terrified," the young girl recalls. "I didn't know what was happening to my body," after being informed by the medical personnel.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, ZFDS specialist stationed at the hospital, Dr. Kamukwamba Mwale, immediately recommended surgery.
During the procedure, Dr. Mwale discovered that the young girl had experienced a tubal abortion, a possible contributing factor to the development of the large cyst.
A skilled team of medical professionals worked meticulously to remove the cyst while preserving the girl's reproductive health.
"The surgery was a delicate operation," recalls Dr. Mwale. "But the team worked with incredible precision."
The successful surgery has brought a wave of relief to the young girl and her family.
"I am so grateful to the doctors," she says. "
The patient is currently recovering well at the facility, thanks to the dedicated care and expertise of the ZFDS medical team.
This successful intervention underscores the importance of timely and specialized healthcare in underserved communities across Zambia.
The ZFDS team is currently conducting a medical outreach in Sinazongwe, where they have already performed 10 crucial surgeries, including cesarean sections and cervical cerclage procedures.
Trending
29 December 2024
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For a 24-year-old woman from Chinsali District, Muchinga Province, the past year had been a relentless struggle against a growing breast mass.
Pain and anxiety consumed her days as she sought answers from various doctors, only to be met with frustration and uncertainty.
However, a glimmer of hope emerged when the Zambia Flying Doctor Service (ZFDS) announced they would be providing surgical services at Nakonde District Hospital.
With renewed determination, Mweene traveled to the hospital, fearing the worst but clinging to a fragile hope.
The ZFDS team, led by Dr. Kelly Makonko, provided immediate and compassionate care.
A swift diagnosis and a timely mastectomy removed a massive 9-kilogram tumor, lifting the physical and emotional burden that had weighed heavily on the patient for over a year.
"I am incredibly grateful to the ZFDS team," expressed the patient, her voice filled with relief."Their swift action gave me back my life."
Her story exemplifies the vital role of the ZFDS in providing accessible and high-quality healthcare to underserved communities across Zambia.
Our duty is to ensure that free Healthcare for all is achieved
Trending
27 December 2024
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A Zambia Flying Doctor Service (ZFDS) team led by surgeon Dr. Kelly Makonko has saved the life of a 19-year-old, male from Nakonde District, Muchinga Province who was rushed to Nakonde District Hospital in critical condition on December 26, 2024.
The victim had been stabbed four times by an unknown assailant, sustaining severe injuries to his abdomen, back, and arms.
Upon arrival at the hospital, he was unconscious and bleeding heavily.
Dr. Makonko and his team quickly performed an exploratory laparotomy, which revealed internal bleeding and perforated intestines.
The team successfully stopped the bleeding, repaired the damaged intestines, and stabilized him with blood transfusion.
The life-saving operation prevented the need for a referral to Chinsali General Hospital, 230 kilometers away—a delay that could have been fatal.
The victim has since regained consciousness.
His mother also praised the ZFDS team, describing their intervention as a miracle and will forever be grateful for the timely support rendered by the Government through the ZFDS.
We wish him a quick recovery 
Trending
27 December 2024
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The Zambia Flying Doctor Service (ZFDS) Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Tendai Mweemba, was assisting with fixing
a tire after the vehicle broke down in route to a courtesy call on Chief Sinazongwe and Council Secretary in
Sinazongwe District. Dr.Mweemba is leading a medical team on a routine & specialised outreach in the District.
Trending
27 December 2024
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Minister of Health Dr. Elijah Julaki Muchima has commended the Zambia Flying Doctor Service (ZFDS) for its exemplary use and maintenance of mobile hospital units, describing the institution as a model for effective healthcare delivery in Zambia.
“We commend you for fully utilizing and properly maintaining the mobile health units. You are a model that should be replicated on how to effectively operate these units for the betterment of our citizens,” Dr. Muchima remarked during his visit to the Zambia Flying Doctor Service's Kenneth Kaunda Aerodrome Hospital in Ndola.
The Minister emphasized the significance of mobile hospital units, which he termed an important investment aimed at bringing healthcare services closer to ordinary Zambians. “Government wants to see these units utilized fully to benefit the people, particularly those in remote areas,” he added.
Speaking during the tour, ZFDS Chief Executive Officer Dr. George Nguni expressed gratitude for the government’s unwavering support, which has enabled the institution to expand its operations.
“Through your support, we have procured two helicopters and a number of utility vehicles. This investment will surely go a long way in enhancing our operations and delivering high-quality healthcare to the Zambian people in remote areas,” Dr. Nguni said.
The Zambia Flying Doctor Service is a specialized health institution established to provide emergency and routine healthcare services to remote and underserved areas across the country. Operating from its base in Ndola, ZFDS employs a fleet of aircraft, helicopters, and mobile hospital units to deliver medical services, conduct outreach programs, and respond to emergencies.
With its innovative approach, ZFDS has been instrumental in bridging the healthcare gap for rural communities, ensuring that no Zambian is left behind in accessing quality healthcare. Recent investments, such as the acquisition of helicopters and utility vehicles, highlight the institution's commitment to enhancing service delivery and saving lives in the most challenging environments.
The government’s continued support of ZFDS aligns with its broader agenda to achieve equitable and accessible healthcare for all citizens.
Trending
27 December 2024
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The Zambia Flying Doctor Service (ZFDS) has facilitated transport and referral of a 22-year-old university student diagnosed with erythroderma psoriasis, a rare and severe skin condition, from Malima Rural Health Center to Maamba General Hospital.
The patient is currently admitted at Maamba General Hospital for stabilization in preparation for further management in Lusaka.
The patient was first presented at the rural health facility during a ZFDS outreach program, where Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Tendai Mweemba, assessed his condition.
Erythroderma psoriasis, which causes a widespread reddish rash resembling severe burns, can lead to life-threatening complications, including fever and dehydration.
“This is a rare and severe condition that required immediate action.
The patient needs advanced care, and our priority is to ensure he receives the necessary treatment without delay,” said Dr. Mweemba.
The student, who is from Monze, shared that his condition began as small patches on his chest four (4) months ago and progressively spread to cover his entire body, forcing him to drop out of school.
After being stabilized at Maamba General Hospital, plans are underway to evacuate him to Lusaka by ZFDS for specialized care.
Trending
27 December 2024
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Zambia Flying Doctor Service (ZFDS) Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Tendai Mweemba, has commended Sinazongwe District Health Office for their effective efforts in reducing maternal deaths.
The district has recorded only four maternal deaths this year, a significant improvement that highlights the success of their healthcare interventions.
Dr. Mweemba noted that Sinazongwe, with its large maternal population, is setting a strong example in maternal health, and ZFDS is learning from their strategies to enhance healthcare delivery across Zambia.
Dr.Mweemba is leading a team of medical personnel in the district currently implementing medical outreach programme.
And Sinazongwe District Health Director (DHD), Dr.Christabel Musonda has attributed this success to comprehensive community, health facility, and district-level efforts.
These include investments in neighborhood health committees, Safe Motherhood Action Groups (SMAGs), and improved access to antenatal care through outreach posts.
Dr.Musonda further explained that health centers and the district health office hold weekly surveillance and response meetings to address maternal and perinatal complications.
Additionally, the district ensures safe referrals to Maamba General Hospital through a dedicated ambulance service and ongoing mentorship.
She said the construction of maternity annexes has also enhanced service delivery by providing improved lodging for expectant mothers.
The ZFDS continues to work with the various Provincial and District Health Departments to ensure health care for all is achieved.
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