Dar es Salaam. The Government has assured the public that there are currently no patients admitted with COVID-19, severe influenza or cholera in hospitals across Tanzania, as health authorities maintain heightened surveillance during the rainy season.
Minister for Health, Mohamed Mchengerwa, made the clarification on February 27, 2026, during a strategic inspection visit to Amana Regional Referral Hospital in Dar es Salaam.
The visit focused on assessing service delivery and reviewing ongoing infrastructure improvements at the facility.
Mr Mchengerwa said the Government remains alert and continues to closely monitor the trend of communicable diseases, including cholera, dengue and COVID-19, particularly during the rainy season when the risk of outbreaks tends to increase.
However, he stressed that there is currently no COVID-19 patient admitted in any hospital in the country.
“I would like to assure all citizens that your Government is vigilant and continues to closely follow the trend of COVID-19 infections both locally and internationally. At the same time, we emphasise the importance of everyone continuing to take precautions and adhere to professional medical advice to protect personal and public health,” he said.
The minister urged wananchi to remain attentive to official public health updates, including recent guidance issued by the Government Chief Medical Officer, and to continue observing preventive measures.
Mr Mchengerwa also called on Tanzanians to enrol in the Universal Health Insurance scheme, noting that medical expenses can be a major obstacle for low-income families, particularly when specialised or super-specialised services are required.
He said universal health insurance must go hand in hand with reliable availability of medicines and medical supplies in health centres and hospitals to ensure the Government’s goal of accessible healthcare for all is fully realised.
During the visit, the minister, accompanied by Permanent Secretary Dr Seif Shekalaghe and senior ministry officials, inspected service areas, listened to concerns raised by healthcare workers and patients, and outlined measures aimed at improving efficiency, quality of care and hospital infrastructure.
The Government has maintained that preparedness, close surveillance and public cooperation remain critical in safeguarding national health security.
