Tanzania is stepping up its fight against non-communicable diseases (NCDs) a group of chronic illnesses such as diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and hypertension through the implementation of the Third National Multisectoral Strategic Plan for the Prevention and Control of NCDs (2021–2026).
But while the plan reflects a strong political will, experts say long-term success will depend on sustained funding, cross-sector collaboration, and community-level awareness.
NCDs now account for over 33% of all deaths in Tanzania, according to the Ministry of Health. This marks a dramatic shift from the past, when infectious diseases dominated the public health landscape.
As Tanzania undergoes economic and demographic transitions, lifestyle-related diseases fueled by poor diets, sedentary habits, and increased tobacco and alcohol use have surged.
In Parliament on Thursday, Deputy Minister for Health, Dr. Godwin Mollel, outlined key pillars of the national strategy: improving healthcare infrastructure, training more medical personnel, investing in diagnostic technologies, and encouraging healthier lifestyles.
“We are focusing on early diagnosis, increased awareness, and promoting physical activity and nutrition as preventive tools,” Dr. Mollel said.
Over 6.7 trillion shillings has been invested in the health sector in recent years, with the aim of transforming Tanzania into a regional medical hub.
This has led to notable improvements in medical infrastructure, including equipping regional hospitals with advanced diagnostic tools.
However, analysts argue that infrastructure alone is not enough. For NCD prevention to be effective, there must be greater community engagement and a shift in public attitudes toward health.
Many Tanzanians still seek care only when symptoms become severe, limiting the impact of early detection efforts.
One of the key pillars of the 2021–2026 strategy is multisectoral collaboration, but implementation on this front remains a challenge. NCDs are not just a health issue they are linked to urban planning, food systems, education, and the environment.
“Getting all sectors from education to agriculture to take ownership of NCD prevention is crucial,” said MP Bernadeta Mushashu (CCM), who pushed for clarification on the government’s plans during the session.
“We need to learn from countries where cross-sectoral approaches have delivered measurable results.”he added
In a related discussion, Prof. Patrick Ndakidemi (CCM) urged the government to consider offering free treatment for sickle cell patients, citing the high cost of care.
Dr. Mollel responded that the government has already made life-saving investments in sickle cell treatment, especially for children, and that more than 30 children have received free treatment so far.
While commendable, this figure is relatively small when considering the estimated 11,000 children born with sickle cell disease each year in Tanzania, suggesting a need for broader coverage and more consistent funding.
As the 2021–2026 strategic plan approaches its midpoint, the key question is whether these interventions can be scaled sustainably.
Public health experts warn that without regular evaluation, grassroots awareness campaigns, and continued cross-sector funding, the goals may remain aspirational.
Moreover, with health systems still recovering from the impact of COVID-19, ensuring that NCDs remain a top priority amid competing national challenges such as youth unemployment, climate change, and economic inequality will test the government’s political and fiscal commitment.
The war against NCDs is far from over. But if the government can deliver on its promises, and if society at large takes responsibility for health, Tanzania could avoid the looming NCD crisis that has overwhelmed many other developing nations.
Source Daily News