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INTRODUCTION: diagnostic radiology is recognised as a key component of modern healthcare however there is marked inequality in global access to imaging. Rural populations of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) have the greatest need. Carefully coordinated healthcare planning is required to meet the ever increasing global demand for imaging and to ensure equitable access to services. However, meaningful planning requires robust data. Currently, there is no comprehensive published data on radiological equipment resources in low-income countries. The aim of this study was to conduct the first detailed analysis of registered diagnostic radiology equipment resources in a low income African country and compare findings with recently published South African data. METHODS: the study was conducted in Tanzania in September 2014, in collaboration with the Tanzanian Atomic Energy Commission (TAEC) which maintains a comprehensive database of the country's registered diagnostic imaging equipment. All TAEC equipment data were quantified as units per million population by imaging modality, geographical zone and healthcare sector. RESULTS: there are 5.7 general radiography units per million population in the public sector with a relatively homogeneous geographical distribution. When compared with the South African public-sector, Tanzanian resources are 3-, 21- and 6-times lower in general radiography, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging respectively. CONCLUSION: the homogeneous Tanzanian distribution of basic public-sector radiological services reflects central government's commitment to equitable distribution of essential resources. However, the 5.7 general radiography units per million population is lower than the 20 units per million population recommended by the World Health Organization.

Simulation replicates clinical experiences without patient risk; it remains uncommon in lower-income countries. We outline the creation of Rwanda's first centre for simulation and skills training. We secured funding for renovations, equipment and staff; curricula were developed, tested, and refined; local clinicians were trained to teach. In 13 months the centre provided 2,377 learning-encounters and 822 hours of training to Rwandan health care professionals. Our strategy represents an adaptable model for simulation and skills centre development in low-resources settings.

Introduction: Treatment of congenital ptosis is exclusively surgical; the frontalis sling method is most appropriate when the ptosis is severe, with no upper eyelid levator function. This surgery typically utilizes various materials (autologous fascia lata, silicone, nylon, or polypropylene bands, etc.)., Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective descriptive study of 22 children under 16 years of age, treated for congenital ptosis by frontalis suspension of the levator muscle of the upper eyelid using the polypropylene technique, between January 1, 2014 and June 30, 2017 at the African Institute of Tropical Ophthalmology teaching hospital., Results: In our study, the surgical result (prior to correction of recurrences) was satisfactory in 81.82 % of cases, with a recurrence rate of 13.64 %. The mean follow-up was 14 months, ranging from 4 to 25 months., Discussion: The use of polypropylene provides encouraging results in ptosis surgery, while also offering the advantage of being low cost and more available. Its use in developing countries deserves special attention., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)