DAR ES SALAAM: MUHIMBILI National Hospital (MNH) has announced plans to establish liver transplantation services, marking a significant step in the government’s efforts to enhance specialised medical care in Tanzania.
This initiative aims to bring advanced healthcare closer to the public, reducing the need for costly overseas referrals due to a lack of expertise, diagnostic equipment, or appropriate infrastructure in the country.
Speaking to the press in Dar es Salaam over the weekend, MNH Executive Director, Professor Mohamed Janabi, said that the hospital has entered into agreements with several international hospitals specialising in liver transplantation.
“These partnerships will enable Tanzania to begin offering liver transplantation services by the end of 2025. The necessary infrastructure and diagnostic equipment are already in place,” Prof Janabi stated.
He also noted recent collaborations with specialists from Fortis Hospital in India, who worked alongside MNH doctors to assess the hospital’s readiness.
“Over the course of three days, the specialists evaluated more than 100 patients with various liver conditions. They also reviewed the availability of medication, laboratory infrastructure, and ICU facilities required for this service,” he explained.
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Dr Kitembo Salumu, a specialist in gastrointestinal and liver surgery, shared insights into the prevalence of liver conditions in the country. “Current hospital statistics show that over 5,000 patients are suffering from liver conditions.
Of these, 2,333 have liver tumors, 607 have been diagnosed with liver cancer and many others are dealing with liver failure. A significant number of these cases will require liver transplantation,” Dr Salumu noted.
Meanwhile, Dr Gaurav Gupta, a liver transplant expert from Fortis Hospital and Ms Jenifer Choudhary, Business Director at Vaidam Health, reaffirmed their commitment to supporting MNH in providing this critical service.
“This initiative will be a major advancement for Tanzania’s healthcare system, allowing citizens to access life-saving treatments without the need to travel abroad,” they said.
