The Tanzania Nurses Association (TANA) has strongly condemned an alleged assault on a nurse at Bariadi Town Hospital in Simiyu Region, describing the incident as a serious threat to the safety, dignity and professional integrity of healthcare workers.
Speaking in Dodoma, TANA President Dr. Ezekiel Mbao said the association received reports that a nurse was allegedly assaulted by a doctor while on duty at the hospital on May 26, 2026.
Dr. Mbao said TANA was informed of the incident a day later and immediately began following up on the matter through its Simiyu regional branch and relevant authorities.
He said the incident extends beyond a dispute between two individuals, arguing that it raises broader concerns about workplace safety and respect within healthcare facilities.
“We strongly condemn and denounce all acts of harassment, violence and humiliation against health workers in their workplaces. Protecting the dignity and safety of nurses is essential to safeguarding the quality of healthcare services for Tanzanians,” he said.
According to Dr. Mbao, the alleged assault not only humiliated the nurse while carrying out professional duties but also posed risks to the safety of patients and other healthcare workers present at the time.
He warned that such incidents undermine the reputation of the nursing profession, weaken teamwork among health professionals and could ultimately affect the quality of care provided to the public.
Dr. Mbao stressed that physical violence against a colleague in the workplace constitutes a criminal offence, professional misconduct and a violation of public service regulations.
“Any employee who commits such an act should face appropriate action in accordance with the law, regulations and established procedures, regardless of their profession, rank or position,” he said.
The association has called on leaders and institutions responsible for enforcing professional standards and public service regulations to handle the matter fairly, transparently and without discrimination.
TANA said workplace violence must be addressed promptly to maintain trust among healthcare workers and ensure a safe environment for delivering health services.
Dr. Mbao said the association would continue monitoring the progress of the case through its Simiyu branch while remaining committed to protecting the rights and welfare of its members.
He added that TANA would continue collaborating with stakeholders to strengthen workplace safety and promote adherence to professional ethics and responsibilities across the health sector.
Meanwhile, the Secretary of the Tanzania Nurses Association at the Benjamin Mkapa Hospital branch, Mwagu Thobias, urged workers and authorities not to conceal incidents occurring in workplaces.
He said delays in reporting the Bariadi incident allowed the matter to attract public attention through media reports, highlighting the need for greater transparency and accountability.
Mwagu further called on authorities to ensure strict compliance with laws, regulations and professional guidelines to safeguard nurses, who constitute the largest workforce in healthcare service delivery.
He noted that the alleged assault reportedly occurred in the presence of a patient, a situation that could damage professional relationships and erode public confidence in healthcare services.
He urged the responsible authorities to take prompt action and ensure justice is served while maintaining a safe and respectful working environment for all healthcare professionals.
