Tanzania’s kidney transplant efficiency goes next level

DAR ES SALAAM: EXCELLENCE in performing kidney transplant is now among major achievements in Tanzania’s health sector, and that, has considerably helped to boost the country’s medical tourism.

As revealed by the Chief Medical Officer, Dr Grace Maghembe, kidney services have improved in the country including kidney transplants that witnessed 157 people receiving the service  at the time when there is also an increase in dialysis centers to 73 with 749 machines serving 3,300 patients.

Dr Maghembe said this in Dar es Salaam while opening the 10th Conference of the Society of Nephrologists of Tanzania (NESOT), an event attended by 200 specialists from inside and outside the country, most notably South Africa, Kenya, Tunisia and India.

Dr Maghembe said the ministry will continue to collaborate with NESOT in training, improving services and positioning Tanzania as a hub for kidney transplants and medical tourism in the East African and SADC regions.

“I congratulate NESOT for the victory that enabled Tanzania to be selected to host the African Kidney Transplant Association conference which will bring together kidney specialists from the African continent. The ministry will prioritize ensuring that the conference is a great success and further promote Tanzania internationally,” he explained.

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Dr. Maghembe also commended NESOT for its efforts since 2012 in organizing scientific conferences, improving treatment guidelines and promoting prevention and early diagnosis of kidney diseases.

The conference was also attended by four kidney transplant heroes in the country.