By Alfred Zacharia
Tanzania’s Minister for Health, Ms. Jenista Mhagama, has reiterated the government’s dedication to improving the country’s health system through enhanced collaboration with donors, international development partners, and the private sector.
She made these remarks on April 10, 2025 during the Donor-Partner Engagement Event held in Dar es Salaam as part of the climax of National Health Week, which officially concluded on April 8 in Dodoma.
“This is a moment to celebrate the remarkable strides we have made in advancing public health in Tanzania,” Ms. Mhagama told the gathering, which included diplomats, representatives from the United Nations, international NGOs, private sector leaders, and the media.
“But let us be clear—while we have made significant progress, we are far from done. There is still much to be achieved,” she added.
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The Minister highlighted key milestones in public health, including increased vaccination coverage, a reduction in preventable diseases, and improved response to Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs).
She also noted efforts in mental health care and the inclusion of persons with disabilities in the country’s healthcare systems.
“As we toured the exhibition booths and interacted with various stakeholders, it became clear that our collective efforts are paying off. We have made progress not only in addressing physical health but also in tackling mental health issues and promoting inclusivity,” she said.
However, Ms. Mhagama acknowledged that challenges remain, particularly in infrastructure development, funding gaps, and reaching underserved communities.
She pointed out that the COVID-19 pandemic exposed the fragility of healthcare systems, reinforcing the need for resilient and well-funded health services.
“The financial resources required to sustain and expand our health programs are substantial. However, with your continued support, we can address these challenges together. It is through partnerships—whether through direct funding, technical assistance, or innovative approaches—that we will strengthen our health system,” she emphasized.
World Health Organization (WHO) Representative to Tanzania, Dr. Charles Sagoe-Moses, commended Tanzania’s leadership in health sector reforms and reaffirmed WHO’s support to the government.
“We applaud the Government of Tanzania for its strategic investments and policy direction. Your commitment to Universal Health Coverage is commendable,” said Dr. Sagoe-Moses.
“The WHO remains a trusted partner and will continue to support efforts to ensure every Tanzanian has access to quality health services,” he added.
Dr. Sagoe-Moses also praised the significance of the engagement event as a platform to reinforce dialogue between the government and development stakeholders.
“This kind of open exchange fosters transparency, trust, and effective coordination,” he noted.
Also speaking at the event, the Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Grace Magembe, stressed the importance of continued investment in healthcare delivery and professional development.
“We must continue to build our infrastructure, train our health workers, and extend services to the last mile,” Dr. Magembe said.
“Health is a fundamental right, and our role is to ensure that this right is realized for every Tanzanian, regardless of location or status,” she added.
National Health Week brought together stakeholders from across the country to showcase innovations, share data, and assess progress in the health sector. The event included exhibitions and community outreach activities, especially in the capital city, Dodoma.
Minister Mhagama expressed appreciation to WHO for creating the platform for one-on-one dialogue with donors and partners.
“The support has been greatly appreciated. It is through such meaningful engagements that we are able to plan better and respond to the needs of our people,” she said.
She called on all stakeholders to renew their commitment to collaboration, emphasizing that behind every statistic lies a human story.
“Every child vaccinated, every patient treated, every person supported through mental health care or disability services—that is the real impact of our shared efforts,” said Ms. Mhagama.
“Let us continue to work hand-in-hand to build a healthier, more resilient Tanzania,” she emphasized.
