Tanzania will continue investing in specialised cancer care, modern medical technology and highly skilled health professionals as part of efforts to improve treatment for neurological cancers and strengthen the country's healthcare system, Vice President Dr. Emmanuel Nchimbi said on Monday.
Opening the 2026 Sub-Saharan Neuro-Oncology Society (SNOSSA) International Conference in Dar es Salaam, Dr. Nchimbi said the government has prioritised expanding diagnosis and treatment services for neuro-oncology while improving healthcare infrastructure across all levels of the health system.
He said the country's capacity to treat cancer has grown steadily, with three regional referral hospitals and three private hospitals now providing radiotherapy services alongside the Ocean Road Cancer Institute, which has been delivering the treatment for more than 30 years.
The Vice President also highlighted progress in diagnostic services, noting that the government has strengthened radiology and medical imaging in national and regional referral hospitals through the installation of seven new Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners, bringing the national total to 13.
"These investments demonstrate Tanzania's commitment to building a health system capable of providing advanced and specialised care closer to the people," he said.
However, Dr. Nchimbi cautioned that neurological diseases, including brain cancers, continue to pose a growing public health challenge due to changing lifestyles, rising stroke cases and traumatic brain injuries linked to road traffic accidents.
He said the government would respond by investing further in modern medical equipment, expanding specialist training to increase the number of neurosurgeons, oncologists and other experts, while promoting research, innovation and the use of locally developed health solutions.
He added that stronger collaboration between public and private healthcare providers would remain central to improving efficiency, expanding access to specialised services and advancing the country's goal of universal health coverage.
The conference is hosted by the Muhimbili Orthopaedic Institute (MOI), reflecting Tanzania's growing role as a regional hub for specialised neurological care following sustained investment in advanced medical infrastructure and specialist training.
More than 200 neurosurgeons, oncologists, researchers and healthcare experts from Africa and other regions are attending the conference to share scientific knowledge, discuss advances in brain cancer treatment and explore practical solutions to improve access to neuro-oncology services across Sub-Saharan Africa.
