Dar authorities reaffirm commitment to healthcare partnerships
DAR ES SALAAM: REGIONAL authorities in Dar es Salaam have pledged to strengthen public-private partnerships in the health sector, in line with Tanzania’s Vision 2050, which emphasises cooperation between government and private institutions to enhance healthcare delivery.
Speaking on behalf of the Dar es Salaam Regional Medical Officer, Dr Gunini Kamba, who also serves as the Public–Private Partnership (PPP) coordinator for the region, said such collaborations will continue to ensure Tanzanians benefit from high quality medical services.
Dr Kamba made the remarks yesterday while officiating the launch of a specialised unit for diabetes treatment and management at Shifaa Hospital in Dar es Salaam.
He praised the initiative, noting that it complements government efforts to combat non-communicable diseases and supports the country’s push for medical tourism.
“Currently, our country is promoting medical tourism. When you see a hospital built to such high standards, comparable to facilities in developed countries, we must commend this achievement. The government highly appreciates this step,” he said.
The unit was established in response to the rising prevalence of diabetes in Tanzania.
Shifaa Hospital’s Medical Director, Dr Emmanuel Maganga, explained that the dedicated facility staffed with expert specialists aims to address the disease, which is increasing at an alarming rate.
He added that diabetes often leads to kidney disease, the leading cause of kidney problems worldwide, noting that addressing diabetes also helps reduce kidney-related health complications.
Dr Maganga further highlighted that 50 per cent of the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) expenditures on treatment are for non-communicable diseases, primarily kidney disease and diabetes.
“That is why Shifaa established this unit, where patients can be seen within an hour by a diabetes specialist, an ophthalmologist and nutritionists, receiving comprehensive care in one location,” he said.
The Chairman of the Private Hospital Owners Association, Dr Egina Makwabe, described Shifaa Hospital as the largest in Tanzania and the first in East Africa built to international standards.
“As chairman, I am proud to see one of our members launching such a vital unit, which will greatly benefit citizens and international visitors alike. This is a milestone worth celebrating and I encourage Tanzanians to take full advantage of this opportunity to fight diabetes,” he said.
