Tanzania and the United States have agreed to deepen cooperation in the health sector through a new Health Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening health services, improving medical systems, and expanding access to quality healthcare for citizens.
The discussions were held in Dar es Salaam on May 14, 2026, between Tanzania’s Minister for Health Mohamed Mchengerwa and the United States Chargé d’Affaires Andrew Lentz.
The meeting marked another step in the long-standing partnership between the two countries in the health sector.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Health, the talks focused on expanding cooperation in key areas including medical service delivery, training of health professionals, health research, and the use of modern technologies in healthcare systems.
Both sides emphasized the importance of innovation and capacity building in improving health outcomes.
The discussions also explored opportunities to strengthen cooperation in the manufacturing and supply of medical equipment and essential health commodities.
The two sides agreed that improving local production and supply chains would help reduce shortages and enhance efficiency in health service delivery across the country.
In addition, the meeting highlighted the need to strengthen the exchange of expertise between Tanzanian and American health professionals.
This is expected to support skills development, knowledge transfer, and improved clinical practices in hospitals and health facilities.
Speaking during the meeting, Mchengerwa said Tanzania highly values its long-standing cooperation with the United States, noting that it has significantly contributed to strengthening the country’s health system.
He said the partnership has supported progress in several areas, including the fight against infectious diseases, improvement of maternal and child health services, and capacity building for health workers through training and technical support.
“The Government will continue to value the long-standing cooperation between Tanzania and the United States in the provision of health services in the country,” he said.
The US Embassy delegation expressed readiness to continue working closely with the Government of Tanzania in implementing joint health programmes aimed at improving service delivery and strengthening the health system.
Both sides also reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening health security, including preparedness and response to public health challenges, as well as improving the overall quality of healthcare services in the country.
The meeting was attended by senior Tanzanian government officials, including Permanent Secretary Seif Shekalaghe, Deputy Permanent Secretary responsible for Medicines and Medical Equipment Emmanuel Tayari, Chief Medical Officer Grace Magembe, and Director of Legal Services Rahibu Mashombo.
On the US side, the delegation was led by Acting US Ambassador Andrew Lentz alongside senior embassy officials.
The renewed cooperation comes as Tanzania continues to invest in strengthening healthcare infrastructure, expanding access to medical services, and improving the skills of healthcare professionals across the country.
The new MoU is expected to further align joint efforts with national health priorities and enhance the delivery of quality healthcare services to citizens.
