Njinikom Hospital’s X-ray Section Goes Fully Functional

By Sr. Franca Andiensa, TSSF

St. Martin the Pores Orthopedic Hospital has acquired an x-ray machine to uphold its standards despite sociopolitical unrest in the English-speaking part of Cameroon.

Accurate disease diagnoses are crucial for improving health outcomes. Recently, the absence of an effective x-ray machine has posed challenges for staff and patients, including poor imaging and inefficiencies. Fortunately, the hospital has acquired a new x-ray machine due to its commitment to sustainable practices. Technician Bajia Victor highlights that the new machine provides better penetration, high resolution, and eliminates the need for dark room film development, enhancing overall efficiency.

For over two decades, orthopedic surgery has been central to the Hospital’s development, with a dedicated operating theater and rehabilitation services. Despite the anglophone crisis, Njinikom Hospital remains a beacon of hope for those with physical disabilities or injuries.

“The personnel are welcoming and responsive, and the hospital maintains a clean and secure environment.” Grace from Foumbot in the West Region shared her positive experience following her stay from December 1 to 30 for leg injury treatment at St. Martin de Porres in Njinikom.

Sr. Nicoline Munyar, Administrator, emphasizes the importance of team spirit, duty, hard work, commitment, and qualifications among hospital staff. She highlights the value of honoring retiring staff for their knowledge and continuity. Quinta Lum shares a similar vision, aiming to enhance lives and improve health outcomes, finding fulfillment in patient recoveries through teamwork. She appreciates the supportive work environment that fosters personal growth and recognition.

Again Sr. Munyar is ambitious about strengthening staff this year by hiring an orthopedic surgeon, establishing a solar energy plant, and expanding the eye clinic in the 2025 operational plan, reinforcing St. Martin de Porres Catholic Hospital’s commitment to compassionate care.

Dr. Lazare Djietcheu, Chief Medical Officer and Orthopaedic surgeon, indicates that he is committed to improving community health and supporting Sustainable Development Goals. In 2025, he plans initiatives in Community Outreach, Primary Healthcare, Disease Prevention, Maternal and Child Health, Mental Health, Healthcare Infrastructure, Workforce Development, Health Information Systems, Community Engagement, and Quality Improvement.

St. Martin de Porres Catholic Hospital in Njinikom, founded in 1953 by the Tertiary Sisters of St. Francis, has continually adapted its services to meet the needs of the Boyo Division community in the North West Region of Cameroon. The hospital provides a variety of services, including general medicine, gynecology, maternal and child health, physiotherapy, and orthopedic surgery, along with advanced diagnostic facilities. It is also known for its community health programs and support for individuals with HIV/AIDS.