The government has pledged to continue investing heavily in healthcare to ensure Tanzanians access quality services for heart and vascular diseases, Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa has said.
Speaking on Sunday, September 28, 2025, during the Saifee Marathon charity run at Green Park Oysterbay, Majaliwa said the investments aim to reduce the need for patients to travel abroad for treatment, saving both lives and costs.
“The Sixth Phase Government, under President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, has procured modern diagnostic equipment, including ECHO, ECG, Ultrasound, and Holter machines, to provide timely and accurate care right here at home,” he said.
Majaliwa cited World Health Organization data showing that 71 percent of global deaths are caused by non-communicable diseases, with an estimated 4.9 million Tanzanians aged 30–79 suffering from heart and vascular conditions.
“Citizens are urged to go for regular screenings. In the past, these services required travel to countries such as India, the UK, and Germany. Today, these treatments are available locally,” he said, calling for stronger collaboration with health stakeholders to raise public awareness on preventing lifestyle-related diseases.
Dr. Peter Kisenge, Chief Executive Officer of the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI), said the government is implementing the 2007 Health Policy to improve services for non-communicable diseases, including hypertension.
He revealed that hypertension cases have risen from 1.73 million in 2023/24 to 1.77 million in 2024/25, reflecting a 98 percent increase.
Saifee Hospital CEO, Murtaza Alibhai, said the marathon goes beyond running, aiming to educate the public on heart health and preventive care.
He noted that the hospital’s initiatives align with Tanzania’s 2050 National Development Vision, which emphasizes human development.
“The hospital proudly supports President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan in advancing the healthcare sector across the country,” Alibhai said.
The Saifee Marathon also seeks to promote healthy lifestyles, encourage early detection of non-communicable diseases, and strengthen collaboration among stakeholders in tackling heart and vascular health challenges.