New Era of Healthcare for Remote Communities of Balochistan: RDMC and IHHN Inaugurate Haji Babo Muhammad Rafeeq Health Clinic in Maskeecha

MASHKICHA  12 December 2025 – In a landmark development for the remote communities of Balochistan, the Haji Babo Muhammad Rafeeq Health Clinic was officially inaugurated today. Established through a partnership between Indus Hospital & Health Network (IHHN) and the Reko Diq Mining Company (RDMC), the modern health facility aims to transform healthcare access in a region historically challenged by rugged terrain and a lack of medical infrastructure.

This inauguration marks Mashkicha as the third integrated health site under RDMC-supported healthcare initiatives, joining the health facilities in Nokundi and Humai.

Addressing a Critical Gap

Mashkicha has long faced severe healthcare disparities. With no prior government health interventions, residents—particularly women, children, and the elderly—were at times forced to travel for hours to access health facilities. This barrier led to untreated illnesses, reliance on unsafe traditional practices, and zero routine immunization (RI) coverage.

While IHHN and RDMC previously attempted to bridge this gap through a Mobile Health Unit, the overwhelming demand highlighted the urgent need for a permanent solution. The new clinic replaces these limited mobile services with a fully equipped facility designed to provide continuous. modern healthcare.

Inauguration Ceremony Highlights

The inauguration ceremony was attended by community leaders, government officials, and representatives from IHHN and RDMC. The event featured a walkthrough of the new facility, where stakeholders were introduced to the expanded scope of services, including basic consultations, essential medicines, referrals, and preventive health education.

Mr. Ryan Mitchel, General Manager of RDMC, served as the Chief Guest. In his address, he reaffirmed the company’s dedication to the region:

“The opening of the Haji Babo Muhammad Rafeeq Health Clinic is a testament to our commitment to community-centered development,” said Mr. Mitchel. “We believe that equitable access to healthcare is a fundamental right, regardless of geographical challenges. This facility stands as a promise to the people of Mashkicha that their well-being is our priority.”

Mr. Shir Jan, Program Manager at IHHN, provided an overview of the service delivery model, emphasizing the significance of establishing a permanent footprint in the area, and said:

“Transitioning from a weekly mobile unit to a permanent clinic allows us to address the persistently low health-seeking behavior and poor maternal and child health indicators in this region,” stated Shir Jan. “We are now positioned to deliver consistent, life-saving interventions.”

Speaking on behalf of the community, Community Development Committee (CDC) Member Khan Abdul Rehman expressed deep gratitude, noting that the clinic would alleviate the suffering of patients requiring urgent attention who previously had nowhere to turn.

The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Shir Jan, acknowledging the collaborative efforts of the partners and the CDC. Commemorative shields were presented to Mr. Ryan Mitchel, CDC members, and distinguished guests to mark the occasion.