Kizimkazi residents hail the Zanzibar government for free medical services

ZANZIBAR: RESIDENTS of Kizimkazi Mkunguni in Zanzibar have expressed pride and joy over the completion of a modern health centre built to hospital standards, which provides free medical services to all members of the public.

The health centre was officially inaugurated on January 3, 2025, by former President of Tanzania’s Fourth Phase Government, Dr. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, and began offering services on February 1, 2025.

 Since its launch, the centre has seen a dramatic increase in the number of patients from just 70 per day at the beginning to now serving over 3,000 people.

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Speaking to the Daily News Digital during a media tour inspecting development projects across Zanzibar, the Chief Medical Officer of the facility, Dr. Tamimu Hammad Said, confirmed that all services are provided free of charge.

“In-patients receive all services for free, including meals. Expectant mothers also receive delivery services at no cost. We are proud to offer quality healthcare to residents of this area and its surroundings,” said Dr. Tamimu.

He added that the health centre has significantly benefited the local community by reducing maternal and child mortality rates, as well as improving access to basic healthcare services.

Kizimkazi residents have also commended the government for investing in the health sector, stating that the availability of nearby and high-quality services has eased the burden, especially for those who cannot afford to travel long distances for treatment.

Meanwhile, the District Commissioner for South Unguja, Othman Ally, emphasised that the district is proud to host a health facility with hospital-level standards that offers services free of charge to Zanzibar citizens.