Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba arrived in Arusha on Wednesday to represent President Samia Suluhu Hassan at the opening of the Second International Conference on Primary Health Care.
Dr Nchemba arrived in the city on September 9, 2026, ahead of the three-day conference being held at the Arusha International Conference Centre (AICC) from September 9 to 11.
The Prime Minister is expected to officially open the international meeting, which brings together stakeholders in the health sector to discuss ways of strengthening primary healthcare and improving access to essential services.
The conference comes as countries continue to grapple with the need to make healthcare more accessible, affordable and responsive, particularly at the primary-care level where most people first seek medical attention.
Dr Nchemba was received at Arusha Airport by the Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office responsible for Regional Administration and Local Government, Prof Riziki Shemdoe, and Arusha Regional Commissioner Amos Makala.
Government officials and leaders of the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) also attended the reception.
The conference is expected to provide a platform for participating countries, policymakers, health professionals and development partners to exchange experiences and explore practical approaches to strengthening primary healthcare systems.
Tanzania has in recent years placed greater emphasis on expanding health infrastructure and services at the community and primary-care levels as part of broader efforts to improve access to healthcare and reduce inequalities in service delivery.
The meeting in Arusha is expected to further discussions on how countries can build resilient primary healthcare systems capable of responding effectively to changing health needs while ensuring that essential services reach communities.