The availability of advanced, specialized cardiac treatment in Tanzania has significantly improved healthcare outcomes, saving countless lives and reducing the need for costly overseas medical referrals.
This progress was underscored today by the Deputy Minister for Lands, Housing and Human Settlements Development,Geophrey Pinda, during a visit to the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI) exhibition booth at the ongoing heart disease screening campaign held at the Parliament grounds in Dodoma.
“Before these services were available locally, many patients had to seek treatment abroad, incurring high expenses,” said Pinda.
“Today, institutions like JKCI and Benjamin Mkapa Hospital are providing world-class cardiac care right here in Tanzania, at a fraction of the cost.”he added
Pinda shared his personal experience receiving heart care services at both facilities, praising the quality of diagnostics, treatment, and professionalism.
“These institutions are equipped with modern diagnostic tools and staffed by highly skilled specialists. I commend them for their role in saving lives,” he added.
The Deputy Minister also urged the public to take advantage of free or low-cost medical camps to monitor their heart health. “It’s not about the cost it’s about taking the time to prioritize your health,” he emphasized.
JKCI Executive Director, Dr. Peter Kisenge, expressed gratitude to the government for investing heavily in the country’s cardiac care infrastructure, noting that Tanzania has become a recognized destination for medical tourism in Africa.
“We are committed to bringing specialized cardiac services closer to the people,” Dr. Kisenge said. “Through our Tiba Mkoba outreach program named after President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan we’ve reached more than 22,000 people across 22 regions since late 2023.”
He reiterated the institute’s commitment to extending services to underserved areas through mobile clinics and community health campaigns.
Beneficiaries of the free heart screenings, including Members of Parliament and Parliament staff, praised the initiative. Ngorongoro MP Emmanuel Ole Shangai said the campaign provided not only early detection services but also practical health advice.
“I was screened for risk factors and received valuable guidance on heart-healthy nutrition and prevention strategies,” Shangai said.
Parliament employee Chiku Ramadhani added, “I underwent several tests height, weight, blood sugar, blood pressure, and cardiac function. I was also advised on how to prevent heart disease through lifestyle changes. I urge my colleagues to do the same early detection saves lives.”
With non-communicable diseases such as heart disease on the rise, Tanzania’s ongoing investment in local cardiac care capacity is emerging as a critical strategy in strengthening public health and improving life expectancy nationwide.
