By Alfred Zacharia
Dar es Salaam. The Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI) will offer free specialized heart screening and treatment services to members of the public during this year’s Public Service Week, as part of its continued efforts to promote early detection and treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
The services will be provided from June 16 to June 26 at Chinangali Park grounds in Dodoma, according to JKCI Acting Executive Director, Dr Angela Muhozya.
Speaking to reporters in Dar es Salaam yesterday, Dr Muhozya said the initiative aims to raise awareness on non-communicable diseases, particularly heart conditions, which are increasingly affecting many Tanzanians.
“We will provide health consultations on heart diseases, nutritional advice, education on heart surgeries, implantation of cardiac devices, and procedures to unblock heart blood vessels,” Dr Muhozya said.
She emphasized that all services offered at the venue will be free of charge. Patients diagnosed with heart complications will undergo further tests and receive immediate treatment on site.
Those requiring advanced care will be referred to JKCI’s main facility in Upanga, Dar es Salaam.
Dr Muhozya said this year’s event is being held under the theme “Promote Digital Systems to Enhance Access to Information and Foster Accountability”, where JKCI will demonstrate how it utilizes digital technology to deliver specialized cardiac care both locally and internationally.
“We encourage residents of Dodoma and neighbouring regions to visit our booth and take advantage of the opportunity to check their heart health. Early detection is critical in preventing severe complications,” she said.
She further noted that the event will also educate the public on JKCI’s mandate as outlined under the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute Act of 2015, which officially established the institute through Government Notice No. 454.
Over the years, JKCI has emerged as one of the leading centres for cardiac care in the region, providing a wide range of services including diagnostics, interventional cardiology, open-heart surgeries, and management of advanced heart failure.
The free screening campaign comes as non-communicable diseases, particularly cardiovascular illnesses, continue to rise in Tanzania, driven by lifestyle changes, urbanization, and limited public awareness.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has repeatedly called for increased investment in preventive and specialized care to address this growing health challenge across low- and middle-income countries.