RALG, TEMDO team to enhance local medical equipment

ARUSHA: THE government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Tanzania Engineering and Manufacturing Design Organisation (TEMDO) in strengthening the production and distribution of quality, locally manufactured medical equipment to improve healthcare delivery nationwide.

Speaking during a visit to TEMDO’s facilities in Arusha, Permanent Secretary in the President’s Office (Regional Administration and Local Government – RALG), Mr Adolf Ndunguru, said the partnership aims to align local manufacturing efforts with national development goals under Vision 2050.

“The government is determined to enhance the health sector by promoting the use of quality equipment produced locally. All councils should prioritise purchasing TEMDO-made medical tools to ensure sustainability and self-reliance,” said Ndunguru.

He urged TEMDO to strengthen public awareness and marketing strategies, noting that its products are high-quality but not widely known.

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“We must make these innovations visible so that they reach hospitals, health centres and clinics across the country,” he emphasised.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry and Trade, Dr Hashil Abdallah, echoed the call, saying the partnership between his ministry and TEMDO is vital in driving industrial growth and technological advancement.

Meanwhile, TEMDO Director General Professor Frederick Kahemba commended the government for expanding health infrastructure, citing over 6,900 health facilities established by February 2024, including 5,887 dispensaries, 874 health centres and 172 district hospitals.

He said the expansion has created rising demand for medical equipment, which TEMDO is ready to meet.

“From 2022 to date, we have produced over 1,000 medical devices worth more than 2.3bn/-. Our goal is to design even more advanced equipment that meets international standards,” said Prof Kahemba.

Mr Ndunguru added that the government will continue facilitating the use of NeST procurement systems to simplify access to local products, while ensuring TEMDO’s innovations gain both local and export market recognition.

He said strengthening TEMDO’s capacity not only saves foreign exchange but also builds domestic expertise in biomedical technology, a key driver for economic transformation.

“This collaboration is about innovation, efficiency and Tanzanian pride. We are building a self-sufficient future,” he concluded.