The Government of Tanzania continues to place citizens’ health and wellbeing at the centre of national development, as the Minister of Health, Mohamed Omari Mchengerwa, held strategic talks aimed at saving the lives of mothers and children.
On February 14, 2026, the Minister met with the Vice President of the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation (STBF), Prof. Senait Fisseha, in Addis Ababa, on the sidelines of the 39th Summit of the African Union.
The discussions focused on strengthening health systems to ensure that every Tanzanian mother receives safe pregnancy and childbirth services, and that children are given a healthy start to life.
STBF is one of Tanzania’s key partners supporting government efforts to reduce deaths related to pregnancy, childbirth, and early childhood.
Minister Mchengerwa, accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Seif Shekalaghe, thanked STBF for providing USD 36.8 million between 2021 and 2025.
These funds have helped improve health facilities, services, and systems across the country directly benefiting women, children, and families, especially in underserved areas.
The Minister emphasized that the Government remains committed to protecting the lives of mothers and newborns and called on STBF to continue supporting Tanzania’s long-term plan to prevent maternal deaths through stronger, more accessible, and people-centred health services.
Prof. Fisseha praised the close cooperation between STBF and the Government of Tanzania, noting that the partnership has delivered real results for citizens.
“I am encouraged to see the maternal health agenda in Africa being led by a woman President, Her Excellency Samia Suluhu Hassan, who has demonstrated strong commitment and leadership in protecting the lives of mothers and children,” said Prof. Fisseha.
She reaffirmed STBF’s commitment to continue investing resources to support maternal and child health services in Tanzania.
Thanks to sustained government leadership and strong partnerships, Tanzania remains a leading example among African Union member states in reducing maternal deaths—bringing the nation closer to a future where no woman or child dies from preventable causes.
