The government has renewed its call for Tanzanians to make regular exercise, healthy diets and disease prevention part of their daily lives as the country steps up efforts to tackle non-communicable diseases.
Deputy Minister for Health Dr Florence Samizi and the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Grace Magembe, joined participants in a five-kilometre run organised by CRDB Bank in Dar es Salaam on Sunday, August 16, 2026.
The event, officiated by Zanzibar’s Second Vice President Hemed Suleiman Abdulla, sought to use sport and physical exercise as a platform to promote healthier lifestyles and raise awareness of the importance of preventing diseases before they become severe.
Dr Samizi’s participation alongside senior ministry officials underscored the growing emphasis on preventive healthcare, particularly amid rising concerns over conditions such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
The initiative also highlighted the importance of regular physical activity and balanced nutrition in reducing health risks and improving overall wellbeing.
Beyond promoting exercise, the run had a fundraising component, with proceeds expected to support health services, including the fight against cancer, improvement of maternal healthcare and strengthening of services for patients with heart-related conditions.
The event brought together public health advocacy and private-sector support, reflecting the need for wider partnerships in addressing Tanzania’s healthcare priorities.
Health officials continue to encourage citizens to adopt practical preventive measures, including exercising regularly, eating nutritious food and seeking medical attention early when health problems arise.
The message from the event was clear: improving public health requires not only investment in hospitals and medical services, but also greater individual and community commitment to healthier lifestyles.
