Chitokoloki Mission
Hospital
Zambia, Africa
Origin Story & Hospital Summary:
Chitokoloki Mission Hospital, situated on the banks of the Zambezi River in the North-Western Province of Zambia, was established in 1914. This mission hospital is part of the broader Christian Missions in Many Lands (CMML). The hospital serves a remote rural population with the nearest town, Zambezi, being 43 kilometers away. The region is characterized by a hot and humid climate, with significant seasonal variations. The rainy season lasts from November to March, while June and July are cooler months with temperatures ranging from 42°F at night to 80°F during the day, Chitokoloki Mission Hospital is a 200-bed facility that caters to approximately 150,000 people. The hospital is equipped with four large wards, three smaller wards, a 25-bed pediatrics ward, a 25-bed obstetrics and gynecology (OBG) ward, a seven-bed ICU, an emergency room, and various support facilities including a pharmacy, kitchen, and laundry area. The hospital also includes three operating theatres, an X-ray department, an eye clinic, and a dental clinic. The outpatient clinic serves up to 400 persons daily and houses a laboratory and an HIV/AIDS clinic. Additionally, there is a 110-bed leprosy/TB colony.
Technology & Capacity:
The hospital has a fully equipped X-ray department, eye and dental clinics, and an outpatient clinic. It is well-equipped for general and orthopedic surgeries, with the capacity for laparoscopic procedures. Anesthesia services include general, spinal, and Ketamine anesthesia. The dental clinic has a functioning chair with an overhead light and essential instruments for extractions, although resources for fillings are limited. There are three ultrasound machines available, both fixed and portable.
Church and Governance:
Chitokoloki Mission Hospital is affiliated with Christian Missions in Many Lands (CMML). The hospital enjoys a good relationship with the Zambian government, having operated for over 100 years with freedom to preach the Gospel and engage in various forms of evangelism and community service.
Training Opportunities:
The hospital offers opportunities for informal teaching during daily ward rounds and formal lectures on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Short-term volunteers are encouraged to share their expertise through these lectures.
Medical and Support Staff Needs:
Anesthesiology
Dentistry
Family Medicine
Ophthalmology
Pediatrics
Physical Therapy
Plastic Surgery
Language:
The official language of Zambia is English, which is spoken by all hospital staff, facilitating communication for international visitors.
Housing & Food:
Accommodation includes nine missionary homes, five guest flats, and 84 staff houses. The mission provides 24-hour electricity through a combination of solar power and the national grid. There is also a kitchen and laundry area for guests. Visitors should be prepared to purchase and prepare their own meals.
Travel:
Visitors typically fly into Lusaka and then take a mission flight to Chitokoloki. Upon arrival, visitors receive a brief orientation, including a hospital and mission tour.
Time Difference:
Zambia operates on Central Africa Time, which is UTC+2 hours.
People and Local Religion:
The local population consists mainly of the Lunda and Luvale tribes. The majority practice Christianity, although traditional beliefs are still prevalent. Islam and Hinduism are also practiced by smaller communities.
Climate:
The region experiences a hot and humid climate most of the year, with the hottest months being September and October. The cooler season occurs in June and July, with temperatures dropping significantly at night. The rainy season spans from November to March.
Unique Challenges:
Common health issues include malnutrition, malaria, tropical diseases, HIV/AIDS, and dengue fever. The hospital faces logistical challenges due to its remote location, requiring advanced planning for supplies and transportation.
Evangelism Opportunities:
The hospital provides numerous opportunities for evangelism through medical work, education, and personal interactions. The mission continues to serve as a spiritual haven while delivering essential medical care.
For further details, visit the Chitokoloki Mission Hospital website.