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By Alfred ZachariaTanzania and China have signed two major grant agreements worth 500 million Chinese Yuan, equal to about TSh185 billion.
The funds will support the expansion of the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI) and promote economic and technical cooperation.
This move signals growing trust and collaboration between the two countries.
The agreements were signed at the Ministry of Finance headquarters today by Tanzania’s Minister for Finance, Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba, and the Chinese Ambassador to Tanzania, Ms. Chen Mingjian.
The first agreement is valued at 200 million Yuan (TSh74.2 billion) and is meant for general economic and technical cooperation.
The second, worth 300 million Yuan (TSh111.2 billion), will fund the expansion of JKCI into a Centre of Excellence for heart treatment and surgery, especially for children, serving East and Central Africa.
“The purpose of these grants is to support projects chosen and agreed upon by both governments,” said Dr. Nchemba.
The second agreement, according to him, is specifically to build a centre for pediatric heart disease treatment and surgery for Tanzania and the region.”
Dr. Nchemba explained that the grants are part of a promise made by Chinese President Xi Jinping to President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
The pledge was made during their meeting at the 2024 China-Africa Cooperation Forum in Beijing.
This support comes at a time when Tanzania is aiming to improve access to specialized healthcare.
The new heart facility will be built at Mloganzila and is expected to provide better services for children suffering from heart disease.
It will also open up new opportunities in employment, business, and medical research.
“The project will bring quality healthcare, create jobs, boost local trade, support research and education, and improve infrastructure,” said Dr. Nchemba.
He also praised China for being a consistent and reliable partner.
“This support shows that the People’s Republic of China remains a true friend to Tanzania. We are ready to continue strengthening our development cooperation and friendship,” he noted.
Chinese Ambassador Ms. Chen Mingjian echoed the same sentiments. She said the relationship between Tanzania and China is strong and built on history and trust.
“Tanzania is one of the leading countries with strong economic and social ties with China,” she said.
She pointed to the TAZARA Railway as a symbol of this partnership. She also said the heart project would save lives and have long-term benefits.
“The support to the health sector through JKCI will save children’s lives, create jobs, and promote medical tourism from other countries,” she noted.
Dr. Peter Kisenge, Executive Director of JKCI, welcomed the support, saying many children in Tanzania are born with heart conditions, and this project will make a big difference.
“Out of every 200 children born, two are born with heart problems. The new centre will help solve treatment challenges,” said Dr. Kisenge.
The event was also attended by Mr. Elijah Mwandumbya, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Finance, and Mr. Ismail Rumatila, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health.
Mr. Rumatila assured that the government will ensure proper implementation of the project.
“We will make sure the project delivers results and improves access to heart treatment in the country,” he said.
The signed agreements reflect more than just financial support. They mark a growing strategic relationship between Tanzania and China—one that mixes development goals with long-term trust.