Zambia
With a population of more than 19 million, Zambia has made strides in improving healthcare infrastructure and access, but several critical issues persist, including those related to the two most common brain conditions in children, hydrocephalus and spina bifida.
In Zambia, hydrocephalus and spina bifida are particularly prevalent due to a combination of factors. Malnutrition, limited access to prenatal care, and insufficient folic acid intake among pregnant women contribute to a higher incidence of spina bifida. A shortage of specialized medical professionals and health facilities means that many children with these conditions do not receive timely or effective treatment. Furthermore, many families struggle to access even basic medical care, let alone the specialized neurosurgical interventions needed to treat hydrocephalus and spina bifida.
Despite these challenges, efforts are being made to improve the situation. In July 2024, NeuroKids launched a partnership with the University Teaching Hospital in the capital, Lusaka. We trained members of the neurosurgery and nursing teams and provided the hospital with equipment, including a new handheld point-of-care ultrasound machine, flexible endoscopes, and related equipment for the ETV/CPC procedure.
By raising awareness, advocating for resources, and empowering healthcare providers, there is hope for better outcomes for children affected by hydrocephalus in Zambia.
Number of children who have received hydrocephalus surgeries since NeuroKids intervention:
63 Children
Since July 2024
Demographic Statistics
20,843,500
Total Population*
3,151,673
Total Pediatric Population*
85
Estimated Incidence of Hydrocephalus (per 100,000 births)
Partner Hospital
L U S A K A
Zambia Team
Dr. Arnold Bhebhe
CONSULTANT NEUROSURGEON, UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL, LUSAKA, ZAMBIA
Dr. Arnold Bhebhe is a distinguished Zambian neurosurgeon with a profound dedication to pediatric neurosurgery. He is a strong advocate for the enhanced care and management of patients with hydrocephalus and spina bifida in Zambia.
After earning his medical degree from Rostov State Medical University in Russia in 2013, Dr. Bhebhe joined the Zambia Ministry of Health. He gained invaluable experience serving in rural Zambia for 18 months following his internship at the University Teaching Hospital. His unwavering passion for patient care, diligence, and dedication earned him the prestigious Zambia Medical Association Young Doctor’s Award in 2019.
Dr. Bhebhe firmly believes that the commitment to surgical care extends beyond the operating room. He actively follows up with his patients within their communities, providing ongoing management through community outreach programs and medical camps.
Stories and News From Zambia
We provide training curriculums, endoscopy equipment, and remote presence technology to hospitals and surgeons in places with the greatest needs.
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