Our second Medical Safari of 2024 to Marolambo a involved a range of complex cases. Community ties were strengthened, with the Health Ministry’s support paving the way for future visits.
A successful mission was joined by a representative from the Health Ministry, the regional DRS.
Upon arrival, we made courtesy visits with the DRS to the Medical Inspector, Chief Medical Officer, District Chief, and Mayor. We then began our mission with a prayer led by our team pastor, followed by opening speeches from the Mayor, District Head, and the DRS herself.

Our mission was briefly paused on the second day when a local hospital staff member passed away. Out of respect, we stopped work on Wednesday afternoon and resumed the following morning.
One highlight of the mission was performing three successful clubfoot operations for young boys—an operation we’d never done before on an MMS. Among other serious cases, an eight-year-old boy arrived with a tree branch embedded from his lower abdomen up to his stomach, puncturing his bladder. The branch was carefully removed, and the surgery, which lasted three hours, went well. We also treated breast cancer patients, hernias, appendicitis, hydroceles, and performed a cesarean section.

Our general consultations addressed a wide range of issues, including hypertension, malnutrition, sexually transmitted diseases, malaria, and congenital heart defects in two children who require specialised care in Antananarivo. Ultrasound screenings detected conditions like cysts, while our surgeon’s trauma expertise enabled more complex procedures.
Despite power limitations, we used a generator to keep operations going smoothly. The DRS was highly impressed, noting that she really saw the positive impact our team brings to remote areas. Her encouragement included a request for us to return twice next year and to consider adding an MMS mission in Tanambao Manampotsy.

This mission was a success not only in treating patients but in reinforcing our partnerships with local leaders and building trust in the community. The DRS’s support and endorsement ensure that future missions can continue to reach those in need in Marolambo and beyond.
STATISTICS
Medical consultation 328; Ultrasound 91; Dental extraction 235; Opthamology 116; Surgery: major 25, minor 3. Total: 798