The Tanzanian government has called on its diaspora community to play a stronger role in strengthening the country’s health services.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Seif Shekalaghe, made the appeal on March 16, 2026, during a virtual meeting that brought together Tanzanians living in the United Kingdom and other countries.
The meeting, opened by Deputy Minister of Health Dr. Florence Simazi, was aimed at updating participants on progress in implementing key health sector priorities under the national “Health for All” agenda.
Dr. Shekalaghe said the collaboration seeks to improve the quality of health services in Tanzania, particularly specialized and expert care.
“The diaspora has a vital role to play in advancing healthcare in our country. Their expertise, investment, and engagement can help us deliver better services to all Tanzanians,” he said.
The meeting, part of a series of engagements organized by the Ministry in partnership with the Tanzanian Embassy in the UK, highlighted past successes, including the signing of cooperation agreements (MoUs) between Tanzania and the United Kingdom.
These agreements have enabled the implementation of joint health projects and programs.
Participants agreed on several resolutions, including strengthening cooperation in high-impact areas, expanding training and capacity building for health professionals, and supporting the development of local health product industries.
They also emphasized deepening partnerships between Tanzanian and UK health institutions.
WHO Regional Director for Africa, Prof. Mohammed Janabi, stressed the importance of the diaspora’s active commitment to improving primary healthcare services in Tanzania.
He also called for full implementation of resolutions from such meetings to ensure tangible results.
The meeting was attended by Tanzanian Ambassador to the UK Mbelwa Kairuki, Deputy Permanent Secretary in charge of medical supplies Mr. Emmanuel Tayari, Chief Government Medical Officer Dr. Grace Magembe, and leaders from key health institutions including MSD, TMDA, and Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS).
While in the UK, Dr. Shekalaghe is also scheduled to attend the Global Health Summit, which convenes health stakeholders from around the world.
