The government has pledged to provide Sh700 million in July 2026 to complete key infrastructure at Ifakara District Hospital, paving the way for the facility to begin offering inpatient services and reducing the burden on residents who currently travel far in search of admission care.
The commitment was made by Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office responsible for Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG), Prof. Riziki Shemdoe, during his working visit to Kiberege Ward in Ifakara District on July 6, 2026.
Prof. Shemdoe said the funds would support the completion of essential facilities at the hospital, including the administration building, mortuary and walkways, which are required before the hospital can officially start admitting patients.
He said improving health services remains a key government priority, as the administration seeks to ensure citizens access quality medical care closer to their homes.
“The Sh700 million is part of the government’s efforts to strengthen healthcare services and ensure that wananchi receive better services within their local areas,” Prof. Shemdoe said.
He added that the investment reflects President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s commitment to improving social services and accelerating development projects across the country.
“President Samia cares about the people of Ifakara and is committed to ensuring that health services improve and that people’s lives are transformed through development projects,” he said.
The minister’s visit also involved inspecting and laying foundation stones for several development projects, including four houses for heads of departments, three buildings at Ifakara District Hospital and Kiberege Market.
Beyond the health sector, Prof. Shemdoe announced that the government would provide Sh330 million for the construction of Mkasu Bridge, while Sh191 million had already been allocated to complete the construction of Kiberege Market.
He said the projects were aimed at improving transport networks, supporting trade activities and creating more economic opportunities for local residents.
Addressing the construction of 10 kilometres of roads in the area, Prof. Shemdoe directed Kiberege Ward Councillor Sultan Kwanja to prioritise roads connecting agricultural production areas to markets.
He said improving rural roads would make it easier for farmers to transport their produce, reduce transport challenges and strengthen local economic activities.
Morogoro Regional Commissioner Adam Malima said Prof. Shemdoe’s visit was focused on addressing citizens’ challenges rather than making promises without action.
“The minister did not come for a political show; he came to address people’s challenges. That is why after hearing about road challenges, he came with TARURA managers from the region and district to find solutions,” Mr Malima said.
Ifakara Member of Parliament Abubakari Asenga assured residents that the government would continue supervising the implementation of development projects, particularly road construction, under Prof. Shemdoe’s leadership.
He said the successful allocation of funds for Kiberege Market demonstrated the government’s commitment to implementing more projects that directly benefit citizens.
During his visit, Prof. Shemdoe also called on public servants to strengthen accountability and ensure that government projects are implemented effectively to deliver value to the community.
