The Regina Coeli Health Centre is located in Tsangano District, Tete Province, Mozambique. On Friday, 13 September 2024, the blessing ceremony and formal opening of the Regina Coeli Health Centre took place around 10:00 am.
The event was graced by the Jesuit Fathers, Mary Ward Sisters (Congregatio Jesu Sisters), administrative authorities including the Governor of Tete, Domingos Viola, Bishop of Tete, Don Diamantino Antunes, religious priests and sisters, community authorities, and many local residents. The new health centre includes a Maternity Department, Consultation rooms for adults and children, a Monitoring Room, a Laboratory, and a Pharmacy, among other facilities.
The ceremony began with the inauguration of the clinic, where Governor Domingos Viola, Bishop Diamantino Antunes, and Fr. Virgílio Costa simultaneously cut the ribbon, marking the official opening of the clinic. This was followed by the blessing of the clinic and of an ambulance donated by the Governor to serve the entire Tsangano District.
Holy Mass was then held, during which Bishop Diamantino Antunes delivered a speech, thanking the Jesuits for their continued contributions to the community. He highlighted their previous efforts, such as the establishment of Escola Secundária Inácio de Loyola (ESIL) in 2016, and now the clinic. Speeches were also given by the Provincial Doctor, the Administrator, and finally the Governor, who expressed gratitude to the Jesuits, the Congregatio Jesu Sisters, and the Catholic community for their significant contributions.
This new health infrastructure will greatly enhance access to quality healthcare for thousands of people in the Tsangano District, especially serving the poorest of the poor. For the residents of Nsaladzi, this marks the beginning of a new chapter, with healthcare services now much closer to home, eliminating the need to travel long distances for medical care.
The event also featured speeches of thanksgiving and vibrant local dances, celebrating this significant milestone. Special thanks were extended to the visitors from Germany and the two sisters from Zimbabwe, whose presence blessed the event. Gratitude was also expressed to all the donors who made this possible for the people of Mozambique.
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who was present and to all those who made efforts to ensure the success of this day. A huge thank you to our benefactors for their unwavering support. All for the greater glory of God!
Here are some highlights of the event captured in pictures:
Sr. Maria Kalonga CJ
