In a significant step toward strengthening Tanzania’s healthcare system and improving access to specialized medical services, the Deputy Minister for Health, Florence Samizi, has called on Tanzanians to invest more in health infrastructure as a way of bringing essential medical services closer to the people.
The call was made during the official launch of advanced medical equipment at E.M Hospital, located in Mjimwema Ward, Kigamboni District in Dar es Salaam. The newly launched facilities include a modern CT Scan machine and dialysis services, both of which are expected to significantly reduce unnecessary patient referrals to distant health facilities.
A Milestone in Decentralizing Specialized Healthcare
Speaking at the event, Dr. Samizi commended E.M Hospital for its substantial investment in modern medical technology, noting that such initiatives complement the government’s broader strategy of decentralizing healthcare services.
She emphasized that access to advanced diagnostic and treatment services has long been a challenge for many Tanzanians, particularly those living far from major urban centers. By establishing such services within communities, private sector players like E.M Hospital are helping to bridge this gap.
“Investments like these play a critical role in supporting government efforts to bring healthcare services closer to wananchi,” she said. “They help reduce the time and costs that citizens incur when they are forced to travel long distances in search of specialized treatment.”
Recognition of Private Sector Contribution
On behalf of the Minister for Health, Mohamed Mchengerwa, Dr. Samizi extended heartfelt congratulations to the hospital’s management for what she described as a visionary and impactful investment.
She recounted her initial impression upon arriving at the hospital, expressing surprise at the scale and quality of the facility.
“When I first saw the infrastructure, I turned to my assistant and said, ‘I didn’t realize the investment was this massive.’ This is truly commendable. You have demonstrated strong leadership, fulfilled a vision, and ensured the presence of qualified professionals. Investment without skilled personnel would not have had the same impact,” she remarked.
A Multi-Billion Investment with Life-Saving Impact
The Deputy Minister revealed that the total investment in the newly launched facilities amounts to approximately Tanzanian Shillings 10 billion, underscoring the magnitude of the project.
She highlighted that the investment, made by a Tanzanian entrepreneur, reflects a strong commitment to saving lives and ensuring that citizens receive timely and accurate medical care.
“This is not a small investment—it is a significant one, and it has been made by a local investor to support the government’s efforts in delivering healthcare services to Tanzanians. I commend everyone involved for turning this vision into reality,” she said.
Advancing National Health Goals
Dr. Samizi reiterated that good health is fundamental to productivity and national development. She affirmed that the government will continue investing heavily in the health sector to ensure that all citizens have access to quality healthcare services.
She also took the opportunity to commend the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Samia Suluhu Hassan, for her administration’s commitment to strengthening the health sector.
“Over the past four years, the government has invested more than six trillion Tanzanian shillings in the health sector. These funds have been used to construct 119 hospitals, 649 health centers, and 2,700 dispensaries, as well as to procure modern medical equipment and recruit healthcare professionals,” she noted.
Transforming Kidney Care Through Dialysis Services
One of the most notable additions at E.M Hospital is the introduction of dialysis services, which are critical for patients suffering from kidney diseases.
Dr. Samizi explained that dialysis, a process that filters and purifies the blood using a machine, is a life-saving treatment for individuals with kidney failure. Historically, such services have been limited and often required patients to travel long distances or even seek treatment abroad.
“Dialysis services are extremely important for citizens suffering from kidney conditions. This facility will enable patients to receive treatment locally and continue with their daily lives,” she said.
She added that it is encouraging to see such services now available in Kigamboni, eliminating the need for patients to travel far in search of care.
“We have been accustomed to seeking these services outside the country, but today, a Tanzanian has brought them right here to Kigamboni,” she emphasized.
Encouraging Utilization of Local Services
Dr. Samizi urged residents of Kigamboni and surrounding areas to take full advantage of the newly available services rather than traveling to distant locations.
“I understand that this is the first facility in Kigamboni to offer such services. I want to encourage wananchi that there is no need to go far in search of treatment—come here to E.M Hospital and access these services conveniently,” she said.
Growing International Recognition
Providing further insight into the hospital’s operations, the hospital’s Chief Executive Director, Egna Makwabe, revealed that E.M Hospital has been attracting patients not only from Tanzania but also from several countries across Africa and beyond.
These include the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, Malawi, Comoros, Burundi, Rwanda, Benin, Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, as well as countries outside Africa such as Russia, China, and the United States.
“The arrival of patients from different countries initially surprised us. We kept asking ourselves whether it was our location or something else that attracted them. Eventually, we realized that it was the trust they have in the quality of services we provide,” Dr. Makwabe explained.
Expanding Capacity and Expertise
Dr. Makwabe noted that the hospital currently serves an average of 300 outpatients per day, reflecting the growing demand for its services.
He emphasized that the hospital has invested not only in infrastructure but also in human resources, including specialist doctors, experienced nurses, and skilled laboratory professionals.
This combination of modern technology and qualified personnel has positioned E.M Hospital as a center of excellence in healthcare delivery.
Supporting Universal Health Coverage
In line with national health priorities, Dr. Makwabe stated that E.M Hospital is committed to collaborating with the government to ensure the successful implementation of universal health insurance.
He explained that the goal of universal health coverage is to ensure that citizens can access medical services without facing financial hardship.
“We will work closely with the government to ensure that health insurance benefits all citizens. Patients should not be forced to pay out of pocket when they fall ill,” he said.
He added that the hospital actively participated in providing input during the development of the universal health insurance framework.
Comprehensive Range of Services
E.M Hospital offers a wide array of medical services designed to meet diverse healthcare needs. These include:
Outpatient and inpatient services
Surgical services
Spine, neurological, and orthopedic care
Laboratory and diagnostic services
Intensive care services
Specialized kidney and cancer treatment
The hospital has also invested in advanced surgical techniques, including minimally invasive procedures, which allow for faster recovery and reduced complications.
Looking Ahead: Future Expansion Plans
Dr. Makwabe revealed that the hospital is not stopping at its current achievements. Plans are underway to introduce additional services, including eye care, to further expand its capacity and meet the evolving needs of patients.
“We are continuously looking for ways to improve and expand our services. In the near future, we will introduce eye care services to complement what we already offer,” he said.
A Model for Public-Private Partnership
The success of E.M Hospital serves as a powerful example of how public-private partnerships can drive progress in the healthcare sector.
By investing in infrastructure, technology, and human capital, private institutions can play a crucial role in supporting government efforts to improve healthcare delivery.
Dr. Samizi concluded by reiterating the importance of such collaborations in achieving national health goals.
“This kind of investment demonstrates what is possible when the private sector aligns with government priorities. Together, we can ensure that every Tanzanian has access to quality healthcare services,” she said.
Conclusion
The launch of advanced CT Scan and dialysis services at E.M Hospital marks a major milestone in Tanzania’s journey toward accessible, high-quality healthcare.
As global health challenges continue to evolve, investments in modern medical infrastructure and skilled personnel will remain essential. With continued collaboration between the government and private sector, Tanzania is well-positioned to build a resilient and inclusive healthcare system that meets the needs of its growing population.
For residents of Kigamboni and beyond, the message is clear: world-class healthcare is now closer than ever before.
