The Sixth Phase Government has continued strengthening the health sector by encouraging private hospital investments and improving medical services, a move aimed at expanding access to quality healthcare, reducing patient referrals abroad, and boosting confidence among citizens and international patients seeking specialized treatment.
The government has emphasized that investment in the health sector remains a critical pillar for social and economic development, as it contributes to job creation for health professionals, enhances medical technology, and ensures timely access to internationally acceptable healthcare standards.
Speaking during the second day of his official working tour, Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila visited Shifaa Hospital located in Hananasif Ward, Kinondoni District, to assess the quality of services offered and to encourage investments aligned with the growing demand for healthcare services in the city.
Chalamila commended the hospital’s environment, noting that it provides comfort and emotional reassurance to patients, a factor that significantly contributes to successful treatment outcomes.
He explained that quality healthcare is not solely dependent on skilled professionals and modern equipment, but also on a welcoming and supportive environment that restores hope to patients.
He noted that some healthcare facilities lack such qualities, where patients arrive with hope but fail to find comfort due to unsatisfactory service environments.
“I want Dar es Salaam to be trusted for medical services. When someone is said to be in Dar es Salaam for treatment, there should be full confidence that they are receiving proper medical care,” said Chalamila.
The Regional Commissioner further stated that Shifaa Hospital is among major private sector investments valued at approximately more than USD 60 million, implemented in partnership with oil companies through the Oil Company Group.
Speaking on behalf of Shifaa Hospital, Assistant Manager Coordination, Ms. Helena Esmail, said the hospital remains committed to providing patient centered healthcare services that meet both national and international standards.
She explained that Shifaa Hospital continues to invest in modern medical technology, professional staff development, and quality service delivery to ensure patients receive safe, reliable, and compassionate care.
Ms. Esmail added that the hospital is dedicated to supporting the government’s vision of strengthening the healthcare sector by reducing the need for patients to seek treatment abroad and by positioning Tanzania as a competitive destination for specialized medical services within the region.
Chalamila stressed that the government continues to improve a favorable investment climate and is welcoming more local and international investors to invest in the health sector.
He said such investments will enhance healthy competition, promote innovation in medical services, and expand access to specialized healthcare services across the country.
He added that increased investment in healthcare will position Tanzania as a key medical hub in the East and Central African region while enabling citizens to access quality healthcare services closer to their homes.
The presence of modern healthcare facilities such as Shifaa Hospital is seen as a catalyst for improving medical services in Dar es Salaam, while also strengthening the city’s reputation as a gateway for advanced and high-quality healthcare services.
