In 2020, in collaboration with the Driving Nurses Foundation (SDN), we started setting up mobile antenatal care with ultrasound in the rural areas around Karatu. We use the same successful concept as the Mamabus in Moshi, where SDN is responsible for the Mamabus, the hospital provides the staff, and the Mount Meru Foundation (SMM) is responsible for ultrasound (training and equipment).
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the project experienced some delays. After extensive field research, SDN was able to complete all formalities by mid-2023, and the second Mamabus was officially launched at the end of 2023. For the time being, mobile ultrasound services are being carried out by Dr. Simpa, who received a mobile ultrasound device on loan during our working visit in September 2023.

In 2024, a candidate from Karatu Lutheran Hospital started the ultrasound training program in Dodoma for the Mamabus project. In 2025, this candidate, Noela Sikay, is expected to begin performing ultrasounds on the Mamabus.

The Mamabus project in Karatu experienced some initial challenges and staffing changes. Although Noela Sikay has now graduated, she has not yet secured a position on the Mamabus. In 2026, SMM hopes to provide the Mamabus with ultrasound services.