By Ebele Egoh
The Director of Biomedical Training and Technical Services at Medshare, a United States-based non-governmental organisation, Aben Armstrong, has called on the Anambra State Government to employ more biomedical engineers to ensure proper maintenance of medical equipment across health facilities.
Armstrong made the appeal during a training programme for biomedical engineers and technicians held at General Hospital, Enugwu-Ukwu. The training was organised by Coca-Cola in collaboration with Medshare and the Anambra State Government.
He recalled that about four years ago, he visited the state to conduct a needs assessment of its hospitals, which informed the donation of two 40-foot containers of medical equipment to improve healthcare delivery.
According to him, continuous training of engineers and technicians is essential for effective maintenance and repair of medical equipment, noting that such capacity building would reduce equipment downtime and improve service delivery.
He explained that the initiative aligns with Coca-Cola’s Safe Birth Initiative (SBI), aimed at improving maternal and child healthcare and reducing mortality rates before, during and after childbirth.
“Maintaining hospital equipment will save lives and reduce costs for the state. When equipment breaks down, hospitals will not need to spend heavily, as trained local engineers and technicians will be available to fix them,” Armstrong said.
He further stressed the need for the establishment of biomedical training schools in the state, expressing his willingness to support such an initiative as an instructor.
“It is important to train people locally so hospitals will not depend on engineers from outside the country. With enough skilled personnel, the state can maximise the use of donated equipment and reduce the need for constant procurement,” he added.
Some participants in the training commended the initiative, describing it as impactful and timely.
Mr. Dominic Okadigbo of Dominion Medical Engineering said the programme significantly improved participants’ knowledge and skills, particularly for those with limited prior experience.
Anyaeji Chisom, a Biomedical Engineer at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, Awka, noted that the training exposed her to new techniques that would enhance her performance, especially as the only biomedical engineer in her facility.
Mr. Azubuike Nwabufo, representing Nnobi Health Group USA, said the training enabled participants to diagnose and repair faulty equipment independently.
“We came with a faulty incubator and, through the training, we were able to identify the problem and fix it ourselves without hiring an external engineer. Going forward, we can handle such repairs and save costs,” he said.
At the end of the programme, awards were presented by Medshare and Coca-Cola to outstanding participants in various categories, while all attendees received certificates of participation.
The training, which began on April 27, concluded on May 8, 2026. Participants were expected to return for the installation of the donated equipment, scheduled to arrive in the state in the coming week.
Ebele is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
