The government has invested approximately TZS18 billion in the construction of a Sports Medicine Centre aimed at strengthening modern heart disease diagnosis and treatment services, improving healthcare quality and promoting medical tourism in Tanzania.
The investment is expected to enhance early and accurate detection of cardiovascular diseases while positioning the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI) as a regional and international centre of excellence for heart care services.
Speaking on July 10, 2026, during the foundation stone laying ceremony for the construction of the Sports Medicine Centre at Dar Group Hospital in Dar es Salaam, Deputy Minister for Health Dr Florence Samizi said the facility would play a key role in improving healthcare services for athletes and the public.
The centre is being developed as part of Tanzania’s preparations to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), while also creating a long-term platform for specialised medical services.
“This investment is an important step towards strengthening healthcare services for athletes and citizens in general. Once completed, the centre will provide modern diagnostic services, expert consultations and treatment at international standards,” Dr Samizi said.
She added that the government would continue investing in preventive healthcare and public awareness programmes through the JKCI Health Promotion Studio, with the aim of increasing knowledge about non-communicable diseases and encouraging communities to prioritise prevention.
Dr Samizi urged Tanzanians to develop a culture of regular health check-ups, saying early detection of diseases allows patients to receive appropriate treatment before complications occur.
“I call on all Tanzanians to make regular health screening part of their lives because early identification of disease indicators enables timely treatment and helps prevent serious health complications,” she said.
The Deputy Minister explained that between 2021 and 2026, the government has significantly increased investment in the health sector through construction and improvement of healthcare facilities, referral hospitals, intensive care units (ICUs), emergency services and the purchase of advanced medical equipment, including MRI and CT Scan machines.
She further noted that the government has continued strengthening disease prevention programmes, including childhood vaccination initiatives, as part of efforts to bring quality healthcare services closer to citizens.
The new Sports Medicine Centre is expected to support Tanzania’s growing sports sector while opening opportunities for specialised healthcare services that could attract patients from across the region, further contributing to the country’s medical tourism ambitions.
