Tanzania, China strengthen ties with alms to MNH

DAR ES SALAAM: CHINA has once again demonstrated its enduring partnership with Tanzania in the healthcare sector, with a significant donation of medical equipment worth 125m/- to Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH).

This contribution signified the longstanding friendship and collaboration between the two nations.

The donation ceremony, held at MNH, was attended by senior officials from the Chinese Embassy and representatives from both countries’ health sectors.

In her address at the event, the Minister for Health, Jenista Mhagama, noted China’s pivotal role in strengthening Tanzania’s healthcare system.

She noted that the partnership has facilitated numerous initiatives, including the deployment of Chinese medical teams every two years. These teams provide specialised training to Tanzanian health professionals, improving the quality of services nationwide.

“The collaboration has been instrumental in enhancing our healthcare system, with these medical teams offering both specialist and super-specialist training,” Minister Mhagama stated.

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She also mentioned the 2022 signing of a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Tanzania and China to deepen their cooperation in the health sector.

This agreement has supported capacity-building efforts through training, participation in international seminars and community-centred health projects.

“This donation is a testament to the strong bond between our nations and our shared vision for a healthier Tanzania,” she added.

“Together, we can strengthen healthcare services and improve the well-being of our people. This partnership remains a cornerstone of our development journey.”

During the ceremony, Ambassador Chen Mingjian of China praised both nations for their efforts to advance healthcare delivery.

She reaffirmed China’s commitment to supporting Tanzania’s healthcare system, recalling the arrival of the first Chinese medical team in Zanzibar in 1964 and the continuous dispatch of teams to mainland Tanzania since 1968.

“Health has always been a key area of cooperation between China and Tanzania. To date, 27 medical teams have treated nearly 20 million patients and helped fill technical gaps in our hospitals,” Ambassador Chen said.

She also said the work of the 27th Chinese Medical Team, which arrived in Tanzania in January 2024 includes specialists in paediatrics, cardiac surgery and orthopaedics. These teams have extended their reach beyond hospitals, providing vital services to local communities.

“In February 2024, the team performed life-changing surgery for an 8-year-old child, covering all costs and in October, they organised a free clinic in Njombe, treating over 1,500 patients. Their compassion has truly won the hearts of Tanzanians,” Ambassador Chen added.

Furthermore, the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiology Institute, built with Chinese assistance, has transformed cardiac care in Tanzania.

The recent donation to MNH underscores China’s continued commitment to healthcare development. Ambassador Chen expressed optimism about the future of the partnership, highlighting the signing of agreements between Chinese hospitals and Muhimbili for capacity-building and joint surgeries.

The event also marked a prelude to the upcoming celebrations of 57 years of cooperation between Tanzania and China.

In his remarks, the Executive Director of MNH, Professor Mohamed Janabi, expressed gratitude to the government of China for the donation and called for further collaboration in the development of human resources and the provision of modern technologies.

“This collaboration offers a valuable opportunity for our doctors to receive specialised training in China, which will enhance their skills and equip them with the modern techniques needed in healthcare services,” Prof Janabi said.