Dr. Stephen Swanson - ICHA Overview
February 2026
Dr. Swanson shares an overview of the work of the Institute for Child Healthcare Africa (ICHA). He highlights the life-saving care being provided to newborns in the NICU, ICHA’s commitment to training and mentoring local clinicians, and the growing impact of the Tiny Feet Big Steps Neonatology Conferences. Dr. Swanson also introduces the Every Breath Counts Handbook, a practical resource helping healthcare providers care for vulnerable newborns in low-resource settings. The video concludes with a moment of appreciation for several dedicated ICHA staff members who were serving in the NICU that day.
Dr. Swanson shares an overview of the work of the Institute for Child Healthcare Africa (ICHA). He highlights the life-saving care being provided to newborns in the NICU, ICHA’s commitment to training and mentoring local clinicians, and the growing impact of the Tiny Feet Big Steps Neonatology Conferences. Dr. Swanson also introduces the Every Breath Counts Handbook, a practical resource helping healthcare providers care for vulnerable newborns in low-resource settings. The video concludes with a moment of appreciation for several dedicated ICHA staff members who were serving in the NICU that day.
Doctor Florence Samizi
Deputy Minister of Health for Tanzania
A special moment for ICHA this week!
January 9, 2026
Doctor Florence Samizi, Deputy Minister of Health for Tanzania, visited the ICHA NICU at Arusha Lutheran Medical Centre. Our NICU nurse Angel led a thoughtful and informative tour, highlighting the compassionate, high‑impact care our team provides every day.
During the visit, Dr. Steve Swanson presented Dr. Samizi with a copy of Every Breath Counts—the 400‑page neonatal care handbook authored by Dr. Swanson and his team, offering foundational, evidence‑based protocols for newborn care across resource‑limited settings.
We are deeply grateful for Dr. Samizi’s support, encouragement, and commitment to strengthening neonatal care in Tanzania. Moments like this remind us how powerful collaboration can be in giving every baby the best possible start in life.
More about our NICU at the Arusha Lutheran Medical Centre.
January 9, 2026
Doctor Florence Samizi, Deputy Minister of Health for Tanzania, visited the ICHA NICU at Arusha Lutheran Medical Centre. Our NICU nurse Angel led a thoughtful and informative tour, highlighting the compassionate, high‑impact care our team provides every day.
During the visit, Dr. Steve Swanson presented Dr. Samizi with a copy of Every Breath Counts—the 400‑page neonatal care handbook authored by Dr. Swanson and his team, offering foundational, evidence‑based protocols for newborn care across resource‑limited settings.
We are deeply grateful for Dr. Samizi’s support, encouragement, and commitment to strengthening neonatal care in Tanzania. Moments like this remind us how powerful collaboration can be in giving every baby the best possible start in life.
More about our NICU at the Arusha Lutheran Medical Centre.
Abuu's NICU Graduation
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December 29, 2025
We begin the 2026 year in a spirit of celebration — celebrating little Abuu, born at just 24 weeks and weighing only 0.594 kg (1.3 lbs), who has now graduated from the NICU! His story is a testament to resilience, compassionate care, and the impact of your generosity. Watch the short video: Abuu's NICU Graduation Thank you for your support throughout 2025. Because of you, more children like Abuu have a fighting chance. We’re looking forward to a hopeful and transformative 2026. Again, thank you for your generous support of ICHA. |
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Tiny Feet - Ethiopia
Video Summary, Dec. 4-6, 2025
Tiny Feet Big Steps, Ethiopia
December 4-6, 2025
ICHA’s first “expansion conference” (beyond Arusha, Tanzania) proudly welcomed 50 physicians and 70 nurses from more than 50 institutions from many regions of Ethiopia.
Warm Welcome from Ethiopian Ministry of Health Leaders
The Institute for Child Healthcare Africa (ICHA) team were warmly welcomed by Dr. Mariamawit Asfaw (Maternal Child and Adolescent Services Lead Executive Officer) and Dr Amanuel Hadgu (Newborn and Child Health Advisor) at the Ethiopian Ministry of Health.
Attendees represented 6 regions of Ethiopia, as well as Addis Ababa:
ICHA’s first “expansion conference” (beyond Arusha, Tanzania) proudly welcomed 50 physicians and 70 nurses from more than 50 institutions from many regions of Ethiopia.
Warm Welcome from Ethiopian Ministry of Health Leaders
The Institute for Child Healthcare Africa (ICHA) team were warmly welcomed by Dr. Mariamawit Asfaw (Maternal Child and Adolescent Services Lead Executive Officer) and Dr Amanuel Hadgu (Newborn and Child Health Advisor) at the Ethiopian Ministry of Health.
Attendees represented 6 regions of Ethiopia, as well as Addis Ababa:
- North: Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital in Mekelle
- North East: Dubti General Hospital in Afar
- Central: Nigist Eleni Mohammed Memorial Comprehensive Specialized Hospital in Central Ethiopia and Adare General Hospital in Sidamma
- South: Soddo Christian Hospital in South Ethiopia
- Southwest: Jimma University Medical Center in Oromia
Tiny Feet, Big Steps Neonatology Conference
Day 2 - Highlights: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Dec. 4-6, 2025
Tiny Feet, Big Steps Neonatology Conference
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Dec. 4-6, 2025
A Parade for Baby Blixen
NICU Graduation Day
Click to watch the parade
December 1, 2025
NICU graduate after 86 days!
It was a moment no one wanted to miss. On the day baby Blixen was discharged from the ICHA ALMC NICU, the hospital corridors filled with spontaneous celebration. Nurses, doctors, and staff from across pediatrics and labor wards gathered to cheer, clap, and walk alongside Blixen and her mother in a joyful parade.
Born at just 26 weeks, weighing only 656 grams (1.4 pounds), Blixen’s survival was nothing short of miraculous. She was the surviving twin, her sibling lost just days after birth. For her mother--47 years old and carrying the grief of eight previous pregnancy losses—Blixen was the long-awaited miracle child.
NICU nurse Shannon Cessna, who supported the family during their last month of Blixen's NICU hospitalization, reflected: “After 86 long days, sweet baby Blixen graduated from the NICU. With the support of our team, mama has cared for Blixen since her birth, learning every meticulous detail of her care. It has been an honor and privilege to teach and love them through their whole stay.”
The celebration was simple but heartfelt. A tiny hat made from a medical glove box crowned Blixen’s head, while a handmade cloak symbolized her graduation from the NICU. Mama brought cake, the nurses shared soda, and laughter echoed through the halls.
NICU nurse Angel, who had walked with the family from the beginning, added: “Her mom has been really strong throughout the journey. Today we had a small celebration, and it was so nice seeing her happy as she was going home with her baby.”
For the staff, it was more than a discharge—it was a triumph of resilience, love, and community. For Mama Blixen, it was the day she finally carried her miracle child out of the hospital, surrounded by the family she had found in the NICU.
NICU graduate after 86 days!
It was a moment no one wanted to miss. On the day baby Blixen was discharged from the ICHA ALMC NICU, the hospital corridors filled with spontaneous celebration. Nurses, doctors, and staff from across pediatrics and labor wards gathered to cheer, clap, and walk alongside Blixen and her mother in a joyful parade.
Born at just 26 weeks, weighing only 656 grams (1.4 pounds), Blixen’s survival was nothing short of miraculous. She was the surviving twin, her sibling lost just days after birth. For her mother--47 years old and carrying the grief of eight previous pregnancy losses—Blixen was the long-awaited miracle child.
NICU nurse Shannon Cessna, who supported the family during their last month of Blixen's NICU hospitalization, reflected: “After 86 long days, sweet baby Blixen graduated from the NICU. With the support of our team, mama has cared for Blixen since her birth, learning every meticulous detail of her care. It has been an honor and privilege to teach and love them through their whole stay.”
The celebration was simple but heartfelt. A tiny hat made from a medical glove box crowned Blixen’s head, while a handmade cloak symbolized her graduation from the NICU. Mama brought cake, the nurses shared soda, and laughter echoed through the halls.
NICU nurse Angel, who had walked with the family from the beginning, added: “Her mom has been really strong throughout the journey. Today we had a small celebration, and it was so nice seeing her happy as she was going home with her baby.”
For the staff, it was more than a discharge—it was a triumph of resilience, love, and community. For Mama Blixen, it was the day she finally carried her miracle child out of the hospital, surrounded by the family she had found in the NICU.
First ICHA Staff Retreat
November 23-25, 2025
ICHA–Tanzania held its very first team retreat at the Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge in Arusha.
Over two full days, the team immersed itself in discussions on ICHA’s vision, mission, and core values, explored individual and collective strengths through the Working Genius framework, and engaged in energizing team‑building activities.
Shared meals and lively conversations fostered deeper friendships, making the retreat a memorable first‑time experience for most participants and a powerful way to launch ICHA as a united team.
The ICHA team will overlap their services at both the Arusha Lutheran Medical Centre and the new Arusha Pediatric and Maternity Centre—ensuring continuity of care and expanded impact for mothers, newborns, and families.
As one participant reflected, “There is enough intelligence and education in this room to be able to write a different story for child healthcare in Tanzania.”
ICHA–Tanzania held its very first team retreat at the Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge in Arusha.
Over two full days, the team immersed itself in discussions on ICHA’s vision, mission, and core values, explored individual and collective strengths through the Working Genius framework, and engaged in energizing team‑building activities.
Shared meals and lively conversations fostered deeper friendships, making the retreat a memorable first‑time experience for most participants and a powerful way to launch ICHA as a united team.
The ICHA team will overlap their services at both the Arusha Lutheran Medical Centre and the new Arusha Pediatric and Maternity Centre—ensuring continuity of care and expanded impact for mothers, newborns, and families.
As one participant reflected, “There is enough intelligence and education in this room to be able to write a different story for child healthcare in Tanzania.”
Night of Light
November 22, 2025
We are filled with gratitude! Our Night of Light fundraiser shone brightly thanks to the incredible generosity of the Arusha community. Together, we celebrated the spirit of unity and hope for the soon-to-open Arusha Pediatric and Maternity Centre (APMC).
We are filled with gratitude! Our Night of Light fundraiser shone brightly thanks to the incredible generosity of the Arusha community. Together, we celebrated the spirit of unity and hope for the soon-to-open Arusha Pediatric and Maternity Centre (APMC).
New Partnership Signed
ICHA and Arusha Lutheran Medical Centre (ALMC) Unite to Strengthen Child Health Across Northern Tanzania.
November 18, 2025
ICHA–Tanzania and ALMC sign agreement to strengthen pediatric & neonatal care in Northern Tanzania to jointly sustain and expand high-quality pediatric and neonatal care at ALMC—strengthening their shared commitment to improving outcomes for newborns and children across northern Tanzania.
Under this agreement, the organizations will co-manage all pediatric services, including the Pediatric Medical Ward, NICU, Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) Unit, and Pediatric Outpatient Clinic.
ICHA-TZ will provide: pediatric specialists, physicians, supervisory nursing support, equipment and capacity-building.
ALMC provides: hospital space, nursing staff, infrastructure and administrative support .
Read the full MEDIA RELEASE
November 18, 2025
ICHA–Tanzania and ALMC sign agreement to strengthen pediatric & neonatal care in Northern Tanzania to jointly sustain and expand high-quality pediatric and neonatal care at ALMC—strengthening their shared commitment to improving outcomes for newborns and children across northern Tanzania.
Under this agreement, the organizations will co-manage all pediatric services, including the Pediatric Medical Ward, NICU, Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) Unit, and Pediatric Outpatient Clinic.
ICHA-TZ will provide: pediatric specialists, physicians, supervisory nursing support, equipment and capacity-building.
ALMC provides: hospital space, nursing staff, infrastructure and administrative support .
Read the full MEDIA RELEASE
Mini TFBS Conference, Arusha
November 7, 2025
The Institute for Child Healthcare Africa team pulled together a 1,5 day mini-Tiny Feet Big Steps conference in 48 hours. With a ratio of 1 instructor to 4 attendees, this gathering had representation from 13 hospitals or institutions (including a team from Béré Adventist Hospital in Chad)! The first day of this event created countless opportunities for intimate connections, quality 1-on-1 teaching and hands-on practicing of skills, content that provided both “easy wins” for changing the outcomes of neonates in NICUs, as well as ‘stretch goals’ for hospitals to try to push themselves to adopt more advanced best practice techniques for helping tiny babies to survive in low resource settings.
The Institute for Child Healthcare Africa team pulled together a 1,5 day mini-Tiny Feet Big Steps conference in 48 hours. With a ratio of 1 instructor to 4 attendees, this gathering had representation from 13 hospitals or institutions (including a team from Béré Adventist Hospital in Chad)! The first day of this event created countless opportunities for intimate connections, quality 1-on-1 teaching and hands-on practicing of skills, content that provided both “easy wins” for changing the outcomes of neonates in NICUs, as well as ‘stretch goals’ for hospitals to try to push themselves to adopt more advanced best practice techniques for helping tiny babies to survive in low resource settings.
Resilience in Arusha: Uncertainty & Hope
November 3, 2025
When flights were canceled and plans unraveled, our team chose connection over convenience. We welcomed a neonatologist (Dr Stephanie Attarian) and her family from Tennessee, 3 NICU nurses from Southern California, and an American midwife and Cameroonian midwife-nurse working together in Chad. Together, we’re holding space for learning, healing, and shared purpose. Read more...
When flights were canceled and plans unraveled, our team chose connection over convenience. We welcomed a neonatologist (Dr Stephanie Attarian) and her family from Tennessee, 3 NICU nurses from Southern California, and an American midwife and Cameroonian midwife-nurse working together in Chad. Together, we’re holding space for learning, healing, and shared purpose. Read more...
Arusha Pediatric & Maternity Centre
October 30, 2025
Transformation in Motion!
Renovations are in full swing at our future Arusha Pediatric and Maternity Centre, with work happening both inside and out! It’s a thrilling and busy time for ICHA as we prepare this space to become the first dedicated outpatient clinic of its kind in Tanzania. More...
Transformation in Motion!
Renovations are in full swing at our future Arusha Pediatric and Maternity Centre, with work happening both inside and out! It’s a thrilling and busy time for ICHA as we prepare this space to become the first dedicated outpatient clinic of its kind in Tanzania. More...
NICU - Arusha
October 2025
- We have changed the narrative that small, sick babies rarely survive in Africa. Our outcomes demonstrated that even the smallest baby can survive and thrive. In our Tanzanian NICU, we achieved a 92% adjusted survival rate among nearly 3,000 small and premature babies.
- Specifically, the survival of preterm babies weighing <1000 grams (2.2lbs) and at least 26 weeks gestation increased by 4-fold to 85%.
- These outcomes were published in an article called “Every breath counts: Lessons learned in developing a training NICU in Northern Tanzania” in the journal Frontier in Pediatrics.
Celebrating 12 Years
October 2025
The legacy of care for babies and malnourished children by Dr Steve and Jodi at Selian Lutheran hospital was recently recognized by hospital staff. Their impact will continue in the future with a new relationship with the hospital. Asante sana, Dr Steve and Jodi!
The legacy of care for babies and malnourished children by Dr Steve and Jodi at Selian Lutheran hospital was recently recognized by hospital staff. Their impact will continue in the future with a new relationship with the hospital. Asante sana, Dr Steve and Jodi!
Tiny Feet Big Steps
November 2023
At the "Tiny Feet, Big Steps" (TFBS) Neonatology Conference, every lecture and workshop is tailored to address the unique challenges encountered within African healthcare settings. Through interactive, hands-on skills workshops, attendees gain practical insights and solutions that can be immediately applied in their clinical practice. More about TFBS...
At the "Tiny Feet, Big Steps" (TFBS) Neonatology Conference, every lecture and workshop is tailored to address the unique challenges encountered within African healthcare settings. Through interactive, hands-on skills workshops, attendees gain practical insights and solutions that can be immediately applied in their clinical practice. More about TFBS...
NICU Expansion & Upgrade
2019
As our skills grew and our care deepened, so did our need to expand. To meet the rising standards of neonatal excellence, we upgraded our NICU—ensuring every tiny life receives the best start possible.
As our skills grew and our care deepened, so did our need to expand. To meet the rising standards of neonatal excellence, we upgraded our NICU—ensuring every tiny life receives the best start possible.
