Tanzania’s free healthcare services to pregnant women hit 65pc target

DODOMA: THE Tanzanian government has reaffirmed its commitment to providing free healthcare services for pregnant women and children aged below five years through domestic funding and continued support from development partners.

Deputy Minister for Health, Dr. Godwin Mollel, made the statement in the Parliament today, May 21 while responding to a question from Special Seats, MP Husna Juma Sekiboko, who sought clarification on the specific sources of funding for these essential services.

Dr. Mollel said the government is implementing its plans to ensure the delivery of quality health services to these vulnerable groups by utilizing the national budget alongside contributions from international stakeholders.

“Currently, healthcare services for pregnant women and children under five are financed through internal government funds and support from development partners who contribute to the national budget,” he said.

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He acknowledged the significant role that donor collaboration plays in ensuring timely and quality service delivery across healthcare facilities in the country.

However, Dr. Mollel noted that, in line with national health policy, not all pregnant women currently receive fully free services.

He revealed that while 65 percent of women are covered under the government’s free maternal healthcare program, 35 percent remain uncovered due to budgetary limitations and operational inefficiencies in some regions.

He urged all stakeholders, including healthcare facilities and frontline workers, to work in coordination with the government to ensure full implementation of the health policy.