Prime Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba has called for greater accountability in the use of funds raised through the NBC Dodoma Marathon, directing ministries and institutions benefiting from the initiative to ensure the money delivers measurable improvements in healthcare services.
Speaking at the launch of the seventh edition of the NBC Dodoma Marathon at Jamhuri Stadium on Sunday, July 26, Dr Nchemba said transparency and value for money should guide the implementation of projects financed through the annual fundraising event.
"Every shilling invested through this marathon must produce visible results because when we invest in health, we are investing in the lives of Tanzanians," he said.
The Prime Minister described the marathon as a national health initiative that has grown beyond athletics into an important platform for promoting healthy lifestyles, supporting the fight against cervical cancer and strengthening access to healthcare services.
Held under the theme #KataWeseOkoaMaisha (Cut the Waistline, Save Lives), the marathon raises funds for maternal and child health programmes, cervical cancer prevention and treatment, as well as specialised healthcare services for children and people living with autism and Down syndrome.
Dr Nchemba said the government would continue investing in health infrastructure and expanding access to quality medical services, noting that a healthy population is critical to economic growth and national development.
"Good health is the foundation of development. Healthy citizens are able to participate productively in the economy and contribute to the country's progress," he said.
He also commended NBC Bank for allocating TZS 200 million annually to support health programmes through the marathon and urged more private sector institutions to invest in initiatives that address public health challenges.
The Prime Minister further encouraged organisers to continue expanding the event into an internationally recognised marathon that promotes Tanzania while advancing public health and community development.
Earlier, NBC Bank Managing Director Theobald Sabi said participation in the marathon has grown significantly since its inception, with this year's edition attracting more than 15,000 runners, compared with 1,300 participants in the inaugural event.
He said the growth reflects increasing public confidence in the event and its contribution to improving healthcare outcomes.
Mr Sabi also announced that the NBC Dodoma Marathon has received official recognition from the organisers of South Africa's prestigious Comrades Marathon, a development expected to raise its international profile and attract more elite and recreational runners.
The annual marathon features 42km, 21km, 10km and 5km races, with proceeds supporting healthcare programmes, training for specialist nurses and midwives, and initiatives aimed at improving maternal and child health services across Tanzania.
