Government rallies investors to boost digital health

DAR ES SALAAM: THE government has called for increased investment in digital health and modern medical technologies as it seeks to strengthen healthcare delivery and improve access to quality services across the country.

Speaking at the opening of the 27th MedExpo Tanzania 2026 in Dar es Salaam yesterday, the Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Mr Ismail Rumatila, said stronger partnerships with local and international investors were key to building a more efficient, safe and resilient healthcare system.

He said emerging technologies including digital health solutions, diagnostics and medical devices were transforming healthcare globally and offered an opportunity for Tanzania to improve the quality, efficiency and accessibility of services.

“Technologies transforming healthcare globally…are critical to improving the quality, efficiency, safety and accessibility of health services,” he said.

Mr Rumatila noted that the private sector plays a crucial role in advancing healthcare through investments in pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, infrastructure, research, logistics and digital innovation.

He called on international investors, manufacturers and technology providers to establish partnerships with Tanzanian firms and institutions, particularly in technology transfer, skills development and innovation.

“Come and explore our opportunities, establish partnerships with Tanzanian companies, transfer technology and knowledge and become long-term partners in our health sector transformation,” he said.

The official also urged local businesses to invest in innovation and human capital, using platforms such as MedExpo to connect with global partners and expand into new markets.

However, he stressed that technological advancement must go hand in hand with quality and safety, noting that all medical products must meet standards set by the Tanzania Medicines and Medical Devices Authority (TMDA) and other regulators.

For his part, Chargé d’Affaires of the Pakistan High Commission, Mr Muhammed Azeem Khan, said Pakistan was keen to deepen pharmaceutical and healthcare cooperation with Tanzania, urging its companies to view the country as a strategic gateway to the East African market.

He said participation of 19 Pakistani pharmaceutical and surgical equipment companies at the exhibition reflected growing interest in Tanzania and the wider region.

“I would particularly encourage pharmaceutical companies to look at Tanzania as a strategic partner and gateway to the wider East African market,” he said.

Mr Khan added that stronger cooperation could open up opportunities for joint ventures, technology transfer and improved access to affordable healthcare products across the region.

Expogroup-East Africa Regional Director, Mr Duncan Njage, said Africa must strengthen local and regional production of medical supplies and essential healthcare technologies while building partnerships with international manufacturers.

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“One of the key lessons is the importance of reliable access to medical supplies and technologies,” he said. Mr Njage noted that MedExpo provides a key platform for investors, manufacturers and healthcare stakeholders to forge partnerships, attract investment and share expertise.

The three-day exhibition has brought together medical and pharmaceutical manufacturers, distributors, investors and healthcare professionals from more than 20 countries to showcase innovations and explore opportunities aimed at improving healthcare delivery in Africa.