IHZ Goes High-Tech

Muchima says the unveils $20 million state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to strengthen private healthcare and keep patients in-country for treatment

By Francis Maingaila ♥️ 

Lusaka, Zambia24  - (18-09-2025) - The International Hospital of Zambia (IHZ) has commissioned a suite of advanced medical equipment at Fairview Hospital, including a state-of-the-art CT scanner, marking a major step in expanding healthcare services and strengthening Zambia’s capacity to provide modern, cutting-edge care for its patients.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, IHZ Board Chairperson Shashanki Mehta said that since the acquisition of Fairview Hospital in November 2024, the institution has undertaken a comprehensive reinvestment program aimed at improving in-house medical services and reducing the need for Zambians to seek treatment abroad.

He explained that the hospital has invested more than USD 20 million in upgrades since the acquisition, with approximately USD 5 million dedicated to advanced diagnostic equipment supplied by Neusoft Medical Systems Co., Ltd.

“The International Hospital of Zambia is committed to supporting the government in delivering quality healthcare to all Zambians,” Mehta said.

“Today, we commission key equipment including the 512-slice CT scan—the only one in Zambia and Africa—a Cath Lab, digital X-ray, MRI Tesla 1.5, and mammogram equipment.”

He noted that the hospital has recruited 215 staff members from diverse professional backgrounds since the acquisition, reinforcing its capacity to provide comprehensive healthcare services. 

IHZ further plans to invest over USD 100 million over the next five years, signaling a long-term commitment to strengthening Zambia’s healthcare system.

Mehta emphasized that the newly commissioned equipment will play a critical role in delivering timely and accurate diagnostics.

“Imaging is central to quality healthcare. Our investment in high-tech radiology ensures precise diagnosis and, ultimately, better patient outcomes,” he said.

Currently, many healthcare facilities in Zambia rely on part-time specialists, which often delays treatment. 

International Hospital aims to house all major medical specializations under one roof, giving patients access to full-spectrum care without the need to travel abroad.

Looking ahead, the hospital has set an ambitious goal of achieving “zero evacuations” from the country—ensuring that even complex medical cases can be treated locally.

“The government currently spends significant resources sending patients abroad. With the right expertise and equipment here at home, we can provide care locally, saving both time and costs,” Mehta said.

Beyond diagnostic services, Mehta said IHZ’s investments will support advanced procedures such as open-heart surgery and cancer treatment. 

"Following the Fairview acquisition, the hospital has built a multicultural team of specialists from China, Egypt, India, and Lebanon—an approach that broadens expertise and strengthens its ability to deliver world-class care to Zambians," he observed.

The commissioning of this new equipment, Mehta stressed, reflects IHZ’s long-term vision of strengthening Zambia’s healthcare system and reducing reliance on foreign medical facilities. 

He thanked the Zambian government, particularly the Ministry of Health, for their support, and acknowledged Neusoft Medical Systems for the efficient installation of the equipment.

“This is just the beginning of our collaboration, which will be mutually beneficial for both the hospital and Neusoft,” he said.

International Hospital of Zambia, now operating as Fairview Hospital, has also commissioned a broad range of systems from Neusoft Medical—including digital mammography, X-ray, MRI, ultra-high-grade CT, and DSA machines—all of which have undergone clinical testing and training.

Additional upgrades include 4D ultrasound machines, new laboratory instruments, and specialized equipment for obstetrics, ophthalmology, orthopedics, and urology. Digestive endoscopy equipment is also being installed.

Dr. Luan Chun Min, Chief Executive Officer of the hospital, said the upgrades are part of the institution’s mission to raise the standard of medical care in Zambia.

“With these new tools, International Hospital enters a higher level of care. We are committed to maintaining our equipment and training our team to use it expertly,” Dr. Luan said.

Experts from China’s West China Hospital are scheduled to conduct training sessions this weekend, sharing advanced techniques for using the newly installed systems. 

Structural renovations have also been completed, with further improvements planned by the end of the year.

Dr. Luan underscored the hospital’s vision to “transcend ourselves and pursue excellence” in healthcare delivery. 

As a member of the China-Africa Hospital Alliance Medical Imaging Working Group, Fairview Hospital benefits from knowledge-sharing and continuous collaboration to meet Zambia’s growing healthcare needs.

He concluded by wishing the public “happiness and good health” as the hospital enters this new chapter of service delivery.

Speaking at the ceremony, Minister of Health Hon. Elijah Muchima described the USD 5 million investment as a “milestone” that will improve access to quality medical care for Zambians.

“The commissioning of this modern equipment is not only an achievement for this hospital but a victory for the people of Zambia,” Hon. Muchima said.

“Advanced diagnostic and treatment technology will allow patients to receive world-class care at home, reducing the need to travel abroad and cutting costs for families.”

The Minister emphasized the vital role of private sector participation in building a resilient health system. 

He said healthcare is a shared responsibility that requires collaboration, innovation, and sustained investment.

“Fairview Hospital demonstrates what is possible when the private sector complements government efforts to strengthen our health system,” he said.

The new facilities are also expected to generate employment, engaging skilled professionals such as doctors, nurses, and biomedical engineers, as well as support staff. 

Hon. Muchima said these investments not only enhance healthcare but also empower households by creating job opportunities and developing youth skills in a modern medical environment.

He commended the hospital’s Board and Management for their commitment and expressed hope that this investment would inspire other private players to contribute to healthcare delivery and the goal of universal health coverage.

Speaking at the inauguration of the hospital’s Department of Medical Imaging, Ms. Wang Li, Counsellor at the Chinese Embassy in Zambia, described the event as a milestone in China-Zambia health cooperation.

“China and Zambia are all-weather friends and comprehensive strategic partners. Healthcare cooperation has played a unique role in our bilateral relationship,” Ms. Wang said.

She highlighted the longstanding contribution of Chinese medical teams. Since 1978, 26 teams comprising 717 doctors have treated more than 6.4 million patients, performed over 39,000 operations, and introduced more than 1,000 medical technologies and projects in Zambia.

Ms. Wang also cited contributions from Chinese companies and communities in Zambia, including the Marcopolo-Malcom Mini Hospital built by Marcopolo Tiles Company Limited, which has improved healthcare access for residents who previously had to travel eight kilometers for services.

The inauguration, she noted, comes in the context of the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit, where China announced “Ten Partnership Initiatives” to support Africa’s modernization. 

These include establishing hospital alliances, joint medical centers, deploying 2,000 medical personnel, and launching 20 health facility and malaria treatment programs.

“The high-end imaging systems we commission today are not just about technology—they are symbols of our commitment to Zambia’s healthcare system. Local doctors will be able to provide better care with enhanced diagnostic capabilities and reduced patient costs,” Ms. Wang said.

She emphasized that a strong health system is essential for long-term economic growth and prosperity, adding that China is ready to deepen collaboration with Zambia to build a healthier and stronger community for future generations.

Present at the ceremony were Hon. Elijah Muchima, Minister of Health, MP; Mr. Shashnki Mehta, Board Chairman of the International Hospital; Dr. Luan Chun Min, CEO of the International Hospital; and representatives from Neusoft Medical and the Wonderful Industrial Group.

While the commissioning of state-of-the-art equipment at Fairview Hospital marks a promising leap forward, Zambia’s broader healthcare system still faces pressing challenges. 

Limited diagnostic capacity, a shortage of specialist doctors, and the high costs of medical evacuations abroad continue to place immense strain on families and the national budget. 

The success of IHZ’s investments will therefore be measured not only by the technology introduced but also by how effectively it reduces inequalities in access, builds local expertise, and alleviates the financial burden on ordinary citizens.