The Ministries of Health of Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar have officially entered into a groundbreaking agreement to strengthen cooperation in delivering quality healthcare services to the citizens of the United Republic of Tanzania.
The signing ceremony took place on May 10, 2025, at the culmination of Zanzibar Health Week celebrations.
The agreement was signed by Dr. Seif Shekalaghe, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health (Mainland Tanzania), and Dr. Mngereza Mzee Miraji, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health (Zanzibar).
The event was officiated by Hemed Suleiman Abdulla, Second Vice President of the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar, and attended by hundreds of citizens.
Speaking during the ceremony, Dr. Seif Shekalaghe emphasized the importance of unity in health development:“This agreement is not just a document it is a symbol of our shared commitment to ensure no Tanzanian is left behind when it comes to accessing quality health services.”
His counterpart, Dr. Mngereza Mzee Miraji, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the benefits of joint efforts:“By working together, we can better address common health challenges, harmonize our systems, and pool our resources for maximum impact. This is a win for the people of Tanzania.”
Key areas covered in the agreement include the joint formulation of national health policies and regulatory systems, collaborative planning and innovation in health research, and the exchange of health data, technologies, and disease control strategies. The pact also emphasizes health promotion and education across the union.
Further cooperation will involve coordination in the procurement and distribution of medicines and medical equipment, strengthening maternal and child health programs, improving nutrition and reproductive health, and enhancing the capacity of health institutions and professionals in both regions.
Hemed Suleiman Abdulla praised the initiative, noting its alignment with national priorities:“This agreement reflects the true spirit of the Union. It will help us address gaps in service delivery and ensure that every citizen, regardless of where they live, receives the care they deserve.”
Though the two Ministries have long collaborated informally, this formal agreement marks a significant milestone in health sector integration.
It sets a foundation for sustainable partnerships that will improve the health and well-being of Tanzanians now and in the future.
“We are turning cooperation into a structured, accountable, and transparent system,” said Dr. Shekalaghe. “The people of Tanzania deserve nothing less.”
