The private sector has been described as a central force in Tanzania’s efforts to achieve universal access to quality healthcare, as the government pushes for stronger collaboration to improve service delivery.
Deputy Minister for Health, Florence Samizi, said the sector plays a significant role in strengthening the country’s health system and expanding access to services for all citizens.
Speaking on April 20, 2026, during the Private Health Sector Stakeholders Conference in Dodoma, Dr Samizi noted that the private sector accounts for more than half of total health expenditure in the country. She was representing the Minister for Health, Mohamed Mchengerwa.
She added that nearly 40 percent of health facilities in Tanzania are owned or operated by private providers, positioning the sector as a key partner in delivering services and creating employment opportunities for health professionals.
Dr Samizi, however, stressed the need to strengthen preventive healthcare to address the growing burden of non-communicable diseases, including Hypertension, Diabetes, Cancer and Cardiovascular diseases.
She called on private sector players to scale up investment in early screening, public health education and initiatives that encourage healthier lifestyles, noting that such efforts are essential in reducing treatment costs and easing pressure on the healthcare system.
At the same time, she underscored the importance of strict compliance with laws, regulations and professional standards, warning that healthcare delivery requires high levels of accountability given its direct impact on people’s lives.
The conference brought together stakeholders from across the health sector to explore ways of deepening public-private partnerships and improving the quality and reach of healthcare services in the country.
