The government has called on nurses and midwives across the country to take a leading role in transforming Tanzania’s health sector by promoting patient dignity, accountability and technology-driven healthcare services.
Speaking at the closing of the annual conference for nurse leaders on May 22, 2026, the Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health responsible for Pharmaceuticals and Medical Equipment, Emmanuel Tayari, said the country’s healthcare system is undergoing critical reforms aimed at improving service delivery and reducing preventable deaths.
He said the reforms focus on strengthening maternal and child healthcare while expanding the use of technology in hospitals and health centres nationwide.
“The health sector is at an important stage of transformation aimed at reducing preventable deaths, improving maternal and child health and strengthening the use of technology in healthcare delivery at all levels,” said Tayari.
He noted that the success of the reforms will largely depend on the commitment and leadership of nurses and midwives, who remain at the centre of healthcare services from dispensaries to referral hospitals.
Tayari said nursing and midwifery leaders must ensure professionalism, ethical conduct and compassionate treatment of patients in order to restore public confidence and improve the quality of care.
His remarks come at a time when Tanzania continues to invest heavily in the expansion of healthcare infrastructure, digital systems and specialised medical services as part of broader efforts to modernise the sector.
Despite the progress recorded in recent years, Tayari acknowledged that the health sector still faces major challenges, including shortages of healthcare workers, increasing workloads and the need for continuous professional training.
“As the sector grows, challenges also increase. We must continue building the capacity of health professionals while improving the working environment,” he said.
He added that the government has already taken several steps to address the challenges, including increasing the health budget, constructing and rehabilitating health facilities and strengthening the use of information and communication technology in service delivery.
During the conference, participants discussed ways to strengthen leadership, work discipline and service management within healthcare institutions.
Director of Nursing and Midwifery Services in the Ministry of Health, Ziada Sellah, said the three-day meeting had equipped participants with fresh knowledge and practical leadership skills that would help improve performance in their workplaces.
“We have gained valuable lessons through various leadership and professional development sessions. The knowledge acquired here will help us improve service delivery and strengthen our performance,” she said.
Health experts say nurses and midwives play a crucial role in Tanzania’s healthcare system, particularly in primary healthcare services and maternal care, making their involvement essential in achieving the country’s broader health reform agenda.
