RISING WOMAN 2025: Zaitun, A champion of children's health in Tanzania

Growing up, Zaitun Bokhary, President of the Medical Women Association of Tanzania (Mewata) and Consultant Pediatric Surgeon at the Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH), knew she was destined to be a doctor.

Her childhood dream became a reality as she embarked on a career in pediatric surgery, driven by a deep passion for improving children’s health.

Over more than 15 years, she has become widely known for her work, saving thousands of children’s lives through surgery, particularly in treating gastroschisis, a birth defect where a baby is born with their abdominal organs outside their body due to incomplete formation of the abdominal wall in the womb.

Her leadership journey has been shaped by various initiatives, including the development of two pediatric surgery theatres at MNH in collaboration with the University of Oxford and KidsOR.

“These initiatives have been a game-changer for pediatric surgical care in Tanzania. The theatres are equipped with modern technology and designed specifically for children’s needs, providing a safer, more efficient environment for complex procedures. This collaboration has also helped enhance the skills of local medical teams, ultimately improving the standard of care we can provide to pediatric patients,” she says.

She adds that these initiatives have contributed to improving surgical techniques, training future surgeons, and establishing specialized care systems. Her role has allowed her to be part of a team advancing both medical education and clinical practice, significantly improving outcomes for children in Tanzania.

Three years ago, Dr Bokhary introduced a care bundle for children with gastroschisis, which has helped reduce mortality rates in Tanzania by 60 percent. In developing countries, the mortality rate for this condition is 100 percent, compared to just 4 percent in developed nations.

“It is a model of evidence-based practice that could be extended across the country, improving outcomes for pediatric patients and laying the groundwork for a more structured approach to pediatric surgical care in Tanzania. So far, 600 children have survived through this initiative over the past three years,” says Dr Bokhary.

This three-year initiative has also given Dr Bokhary international recognition, allowing her to present Tanzania’s progress on global platforms. In July this year, she will be travelling to Croatia to train healthcare providers on the lessons learned from Tanzania’s experience.

As the President of Mewata, she has focused on advocating for equal opportunities for women in the medical field. The organization has established mentorship programmes, provided leadership training, and created platforms for women to showcase their skills.

“The impact has been significant in empowering women to pursue leadership roles and influence policy decisions. It has been crucial in breaking barriers and fostering a more inclusive environment within the medical community. Currently, we have five members who have been equipped with leadership skills, and they are doing a wonderful job in their respective areas of work,” she adds.

The five beneficiaries of Mewata’s leadership training were selected from health colleges and universities. They have actively participated in Mewata’s activities, allowing them to gain firsthand experience and knowledge that will support them in their careers.

Dr Bokhary’s leadership style is collaborative and empathetic. She believes in building strong, supportive teams where everyone’s voice is heard and valued.

She strives for excellence while fostering a culture of continuous learning, guided by principles of integrity, empathy, accountability, and a commitment to improving healthcare for all, particularly underserved populations.

Reflecting on how complex surgeries have shaped her career and leadership journey, she says: “One of the most challenging surgeries I have performed involved a child with multiple congenital abnormalities, requiring a highly coordinated, multidisciplinary approach.”

She continues: “I have continually sought opportunities to learn from more experienced colleagues, attend international conferences, and stay updated on cutting-edge medical research.

My career journey has been shaped by an unwavering focus on improving outcomes for children through knowledge-sharing, innovative practices, and collaboration.”

She emphasises that for women to rise to leadership positions in medicine, greater emphasis needs to be placed on mentorship, professional development, and networking opportunities.

 “It’s essential to break down systemic barriers, offer flexible career options, and provide women with platforms to lead, whether in academic research, clinical practice, or healthcare policy.”

Dr Bokhary is currently working on establishing an e-learning facility at MNH, which will significantly enhance access to education for healthcare professionals, particularly women, who may face challenges attending physical training sessions.

“This initiative will provide continuous professional development opportunities, improve skills, and offer training in cutting-edge medical practices. It’s an important step in making education more accessible and empowering healthcare workers, especially those in remote areas or those balancing family responsibilities,” she says.

She says, as a female doctor it is always to remember a role as a mother, a wife will always be there with no excuses.

To women and girls aspiring to follow in her footsteps, she offers this advice: “Believe in yourself, stay committed to your goals, and never be afraid to pursue your dreams, no matter the obstacles.”

She adds: “Surround yourself with mentors who can guide and encourage you, and always be willing to learn. Empower yourself with knowledge, resilience, and a passion for making a positive difference in the world. The journey will be challenging, but it will also be incredibly rewarding. And most importantly, put God first.”