The Deputy Minister in the President’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (OR-TAMISEMI), Dr. Festo Dugange, has said that the Sixth Phase Government under President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan has invested TSh 1.29 trillion in the primary healthcare level over the past four years.
He made the remarks in Dodoma on behalf of the Minister of State – TAMISEMI, Hon. Mohamed Mchengerwa, during the climax of Health Week celebrations.
This is the first time the event has been held in Tanzania, aimed at recognizing the contribution of the health sector, raising public awareness, and assessing progress made under the theme: “Where We Came From, Where We Are, and Where We Are Going: Building a Strong and Healthy Nation.”
Dr. Dugange explained that the funds were used to improve infrastructure and medical equipment in health centers, including the procurement of both standard and digital X-ray machines and surgical equipment, which have been added to 21 health centers across the country.
He also noted that the government has strengthened communication and coordination between the primary and referral healthcare levels to eliminate inconvenience for citizens in need of specialized services.
Additionally, Dr. Dugange highlighted that during the same period, the government constructed 129 council hospitals, 367 health centers, 87 emergency service buildings, 30 Intensive Care Units (ICUs), 21 oxygen plants, and 270 staff houses.
Furthermore, 50 old hospitals have been renovated, 980 dispensary buildings have been completed, and 560 vehicles have been purchased, including 382 ambulances and 212 supervisory vehicles.
He added that these efforts have contributed to a significant reduction in maternal deaths, from 556 per 100,000 live births five years ago to 104 in 2024, attributing this achievement to the substantial investment made in the country’s primary healthcare sector.
