The Dar es Salaam Regional Administrative Secretary, Abdul Mhite, has commended GSM Foundation for its contribution to supporting the Government’s efforts to strengthen the healthcare sector through the provision of health insurance coverage to vulnerable groups, emphasizing that private sector participation remains crucial in achieving universal access to quality healthcare services.
Mhite made the remarks while officiating the handover ceremony of health insurance cards to 300 beneficiaries drawn from orphanages and institutions supporting people with special needs across Dar es Salaam Region.
Speaking at the event, he noted that while the Government continues to make significant investments in the health sector through improved infrastructure, increased healthcare personnel, and expanded medical services, there remains a need for greater collaboration with private sector stakeholders to ensure that quality healthcare reaches all citizens.
“Despite the tremendous efforts being made by the Government to improve the healthcare sector, there is still a critical role for the private sector in supporting communities, particularly vulnerable groups.
We encourage more institutions and companies to emulate the example set by GSM Foundation because health is the foundation of both individual well-being and national development,” said Mhite.
He further urged citizens to embrace health insurance as an essential tool for accessing healthcare services in a timely and organized manner, noting that insurance coverage helps reduce financial barriers that often hinder access to medical treatment.
On her part, GSM Foundation Director, Faith Gugu, said the initiative forms part of the Foundation’s commitment to supporting Government efforts aimed at promoting inclusive and sustainable development through the health sector.
She explained that children living in vulnerable circumstances and other groups with special needs often face significant challenges in accessing healthcare services, a reality that motivated the Foundation to implement the program.
“We recognize that good health is the cornerstone of human development. Through this initiative, which provides health insurance to 300 beneficiaries, we aim to improve access to healthcare services for vulnerable groups while contributing to the implementation of Tanzania’s Universal Health Insurance agenda,” said Gugu.
She added that GSM Foundation will continue working closely with the Government and development partners to expand its social investment programs in healthcare, education, and community development.
Meanwhile, the Director of Jerusalem Home Children's Centre, Upendo Ngoda, expressed gratitude to GSM Foundation for the support, describing the health insurance coverage as a significant boost to the welfare of children under the institution’s care.
Ngoda noted that children's homes and care centers often face financial challenges, particularly in meeting medical expenses, and that the insurance coverage will help ensure children receive timely and appropriate healthcare services whenever needed.
“We sincerely thank GSM Foundation for remembering us and extending this valuable support. These health insurance packages will enable our children to access healthcare services more easily and reduce the burden of medical costs, which has often been a challenge for institutions caring for vulnerable children,” she said.
The distribution of health insurance coverage to 300 beneficiaries has been described as a significant step in strengthening collaboration between the Government, the private sector, and civil society organizations in addressing healthcare challenges across the country.
Beyond improving access to healthcare services for vulnerable groups, the initiative demonstrates how corporate social responsibility can serve as a catalyst for inclusive development.
From a broader social perspective, the event reflects a shared commitment to building a healthier and more equitable society where vulnerable populations are not left behind.
GSM Foundation’s intervention highlights the transformative impact that strategic partnerships can have in advancing universal health coverage and fostering sustainable social development in Tanzania.
