Yas commits three years to Zanzibar healthcare
ZANZIBAR: Access to affordable healthcare in Zanzibar is set for a boost after Yas Tanzania committed to supporting free medical camps across the Isles for three years, strengthening efforts to bring screening and specialist treatment closer to underserved communities.
Yas Tanzania Chief Executive Officer Pierre Canton Bacara announced the commitment at the conclusion of the sixth Afya Bora, Maisha Bora medical camp, held at Kinduni Academy grounds in North Unguja.
The five-day camp attracted more than 4,200 people during its first four days, offering free medical screening, consultations and treatment.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Zanzibar’s Second Vice-President, Mr Hemed Suleiman Abdulla, who is also the campaign’s patron, commended the Zanzibar Maisha Bora Foundation for extending essential health services to communities.
He reaffirmed the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar’s commitment to working with partners supporting improved access to healthcare.
Health Minister Nassor Ahmed Mazrui urged residents diagnosed with health conditions to seek timely follow-up treatment to prevent complications.
Presenting the camp’s technical report, Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Dr Mngereza Mzee Miraji, said the government aimed to make comprehensive diagnostic services and specialist treatment available in Zanzibar by 2030, reducing the need for patients to seek care outside the Isles.
Mr Bacara said Yas would continue supporting the campaign annually for the next three years, recognising its contribution to community health.
The company also donated a fully equipped dental chair and 30 tablets to support medical teams.
He said Yas’s Tumaini campaign had also supported maternal healthcare at Mwera Pongwe in Unguja and Kinyasini in Pemba, benefiting more than 3,000 mothers in Zanzibar.
Zanzibar Maisha Bora Foundation Chief Executive Officer Rehema Tukai said the camp offered services including heart and cancer screening, minor surgery, reproductive healthcare, eye care and dermatological services.
The closing ceremony also featured the launch of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development’s Build Resilience campaign.
