Tanzania embarks on modernization of Muhimbili Hospital for super-specialist healthcare services
DAR ES SALAAM: THE Tanzanian government said it has embarked on a modernisation project at the Muhimbili National Hospital as part of its efforts to strengthen specialist and super-specialist healthcare services countrywide.
The statement was made by Deputy Minister for Health, Dr Florence Samizi, speaking on behalf of Minister for Health Mohamed Mchengerwa. She said the construction of the New Muhimbili Hospital is part of the Government’s efforts to improve healthcare services and ensure that Tanzanians have access to modern facilities that meet international standards.
She said the project is intended to address the growing number of patients requiring specialist and super-specialist services, as well as challenges arising from the ageing of some buildings and infrastructure at Muhimbili National Hospital.
According to the project implementation report, Muhimbili continues to receive patients requiring specialist and super-specialist treatment from different parts of Tanzania and neighbouring countries, increasing the demand for modern infrastructure and the hospital’s capacity to provide timely services.
Dr Samizi said completion of the project would enable Muhimbili to expand and introduce a range of specialist and super-specialist services, including kidney transplantation, radiotherapy, minimally invasive surgery, intensive care and emergency services.
Other services to be improved or introduced include in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) and bone marrow transplantation, a move expected to reduce the need for some patients to seek specialised treatment abroad.
The Deputy Minister further said the project would strengthen training for healthcare professionals and support research requiring modern medical technologies.
She said the government aims to transform Muhimbili into a centre of excellence for specialist and super-specialist healthcare, while also contributing to the growth of medical tourism in East and Southern Africa.
The modernisation of Muhimbili’s infrastructure is expected to increase the hospital’s capacity to manage patients with complex medical needs while strengthening its role as a national referral, training and health research centre.
