The Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH) has achieved a major milestone in Tanzania’s health sector after successfully performing the first surgical operation inside a newly introduced mobile operating theatre vehicle.
The innovation is aimed at bringing specialized medical services closer to citizens, especially those in remote and underserved areas.
The historic procedure was carried out shortly after the official launch of the mobile surgical unit at Mnazi Mmoja grounds in Dar es Salaam.
The vehicle is designed to expand access to safe and advanced surgical care beyond traditional hospital settings.
Speaking after witnessing the operation, the Deputy Minister for Health, Florence Samizi, said the development reflects the government’s continued efforts to strengthen healthcare services under President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
She said the initiative supports the national vision of improving service delivery in line with Tanzania’s Development Vision 2050.
“This achievement will help many citizens access surgical services without travelling long distances to referral hospitals. It shows the government’s commitment to improving specialized healthcare and ensuring services reach all areas, including remote communities,” said Dr. Samizi.
She added that the mobile operating theatre will help reduce pressure on major hospitals while improving access to timely treatment for patients in need of surgical care.
A specialist surgeon from MNH, Frank Muhamba, said the vehicle is fully equipped with modern medical technology, allowing doctors to perform both minor and major operations safely and effectively.
“This mobile theatre has all the necessary equipment found in a standard hospital operating room. We have successfully conducted the first surgery, and the results show that it can support high-quality surgical services,” said Dr. Muhamba.
He noted that the unit will be used in outreach programmes across different regions to reach more patients who cannot easily access specialist hospitals.
The introduction of the mobile operating theatre is part of MNH’s broader efforts to use innovation and technology to improve healthcare delivery in the country.
The hospital aims to extend specialist services closer to communities and ensure more people receive timely medical care.
Health officials say the initiative will play a key role in improving access to surgery, reducing delays in treatment, and supporting equitable healthcare services across Tanzania.
