About Us
St. Joseph Hospital is a Faith-Based Organization owned by the African Benedictine Sisters of St. Agnes Chipole, under convent Imiliwaha in the Catholic Diocese of Njombe. The hospital was built in 2004 following the government’s announcement in 1997 to construct a big market at Makambako Town in Njombe District, urging people and various organizations to invest in different sectors to provide services to the people. During that time, Sr. M. Clothlide (Mother General) together with the congregation decided to construct a hospital as part of their mission to provide health services. Sr. Clothlide requested land in Ikelu Village for the hospital, as there were no nearby healthcare facilities, and people had to travel to Kibena Hospital (about 40 km away) or Ilembula Hospital (about 60 km away). The decision to build the hospital in this area was highly beneficial for the residents of Ikelu, surrounding villages, and the wider Makambako community. After the decision was made, Sr. Clothlide visited Ikelu Village to find a suitable site for construction. She discussed the idea with the village chairperson, Mr. Deda, shared the plan with local villagers, The Honorable Mr. Jackson Makweta (Member of Parliament), and Mr. Edward Mgaya (Divisional Officer). After long discussions, they provided a registered plot No. 609 for the hospital construction. With the land secured, the congregation immediately began seeking support from various individuals and countries. The first supporter, Mr. Clamel from Swaziland, arrived at Ikelu and began constructing the sisters' house. Later, Mr. Michael Langele from Italy joined and started the hospital building construction under the supervision of Fr. Tarsisio Morech, who was the parish priest at Mtwango. Following this, a group of volunteers from Italy, including Rotary International, Olus Pamoya, and Sicomoro, came to assist in the construction of additional hospital buildings. Lastly, I express my deepest appreciation to these supporters for their tireless efforts in supporting the hospital's activities and development up until now..