The Government has intensified efforts to ensure every Tanzanian understands and benefits from the Universal Health Insurance programme, with the Minister for Health, Mohamed Mchengerwa, engaging media editors as key partners in public awareness.
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Dr. Seif Shekalage, said the decision to meet editors reflects the government’s commitment to transparency and public education, noting that informed citizens are essential to the success of the health insurance system.
Dr. Shekalage was speaking on February 2, 2026, during a working session between Minister Mchengerwa and editors from various media houses, held at Karimjee Hall in Dar es Salaam.
He explained that the Universal Health Insurance system is designed to protect citizens from the burden of medical costs while ensuring timely access to quality healthcare.
He noted that Tanzania’s health financing system has evolved in response to changing social and economic realities.
“In the years after independence, citizens received health services free of charge. However, population growth and rising healthcare costs made it necessary for the government to introduce a sustainable system that guarantees access to treatment for all,” Dr. Shekalage said.
According to him, the Universal Health Insurance programme ensures that citizens can receive medical services throughout the year at affordable costs, reducing the financial shock that families often face during illness.
Dr. Shekalage emphasized that the media plays a crucial role in explaining government policies in a way that ordinary citizens can understand.
He said journalists help communities know their rights, responsibilities, and the benefits available to them under the health insurance scheme.
“Editors and journalists are important partners in educating the public, mobilising communities, and addressing misunderstandings about key national programmes such as Universal Health Insurance,” he said.
He added that the current health policy prioritises inclusivity, ensuring that vulnerable and low-income citizens are not left behind.
Through the insurance system, citizens who cannot afford direct medical payments are able to access quality health services without facing financial hardship.
The engagement with editors forms part of the government’s broader strategy to strengthen public confidence in the Universal Health Insurance programme, as Tanzania moves towards achieving universal health coverage and improved healthcare for all citizens.