Thousands of residents in Kagera Region are set to benefit from free specialist medical services as 48 doctors arrive under the government’s Dr. Samia Mentorship Medical Outreach Programme, aimed at taking advanced healthcare closer to the people.
The six-day outreach, running from October 20 to 25, 2025, will cover all eight districts of the region, offering consultations, surgeries, and specialized treatments to residents who often struggle to access such services due to long travel distances and high costs.
Kagera Regional Medical Officer, Dr. Samwel Laizer, said the arrival of the doctors is part of the government’s continued efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery in rural and underserved areas.
“This initiative saves people from travelling hundreds of kilometers to referral hospitals. It reduces costs, saves time, and brings hope to patients who need expert care,” Dr. Laizer said.
“In past medical camps, more than 6,000 citizens were treated. We aim to reach even more this time.”he added
Dr. Laizer encouraged residents to visit their nearest district hospitals to take advantage of the services, noting that the team of specialists will be stationed across all councils in the region.
Representing the Ministry of Health, Dr. Patrick Kushoka said the team includes specialists in surgery, pediatrics, internal medicine, reproductive health, dentistry, urology, and anesthesia.
“This outreach is not only about treating patients it is also about empowering local medical staff,” Dr. Kushoka said.
“Our specialists will work closely with district doctors and nurses to strengthen their skills, ensuring these services continue even after the outreach ends.”he added
He added that various surgical operations will be carried out depending on the needs identified in each district hospital.
Now in its fourth phase, the Dr. Samia Mentorship Programme has been implemented in several regions across the country.
It focuses on improving access to specialized healthcare, mentoring regional medical teams, and strengthening the national referral system.
Through this initiative, the government continues to turn President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s vision of equitable healthcare into reality ensuring that quality medical services reach citizens wherever they live, from major cities to the most remote communities.