Ceremony for new Bamyan Hospital extension opening

BAMYAN PROVINCE, Afghanistan – A ribbon cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the opening of a new extension in the Bamyan Hospital, March 8.

Funded by a New Zealand agency, the new extension includes a diagnostic lab, a radiology suite, a pharmacy and a tele-medicine facility.

“This project is an example that all peace and security brings positive results,” said Dr. Ishan Shahir, director of provincial health. “This hospital was built with Afghan knowledge and skills providing economic benefits to families and the community, and most importantly healthcare services for the people who need it most.”

The hospital’s extension was part of the Bamyan province development plan, and was approved by the deputy sub-governor and governor of Bamyan province, Dr. Habiba Sarabi.

“We support your endeavor to make Bamyan Hospital the best in Afghanistan,” said New Zealand Army Col. Martin Dransfield, New Zealand Provincial Reconstruction Team commander. “Through opening the new facilities with New Zealand AID and the people of New Zealand, we take another step in that direction.”

A play area was also opened in the pediatric facility at the hospital, which was funded by the families of the members of the New Zealand PRT.

During the ceremony, Dransfield told the story of Max, a 10-year-old boy from New Zealand, who lost his mother 10 years ago, and his father recently passed away. Max decided to donate his toys to the children of Bamyan. The toys are now at the play area in the pediatric center of the Bamyan hospital.

The New Zealand PRT is proud to support the provincial health department in its going efforts to improve the medical facilities and healthcare to the people of Bamyan district.