By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian
Tanzania Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa has urged for the removal of barriers preventing patients from East African Community (EAC) member states from accessing medical services within the region. This initiative aims to boost the regional economy and foster the growth of medical tourism.
Majaliwa made this appeal during the launch of the 12th annual East Africa Healthcare Federation (EAHF) Conference in Dar es Salaam. He highlighted the significant investments made by EAC countries in the health sector, which have reduced the need for patients to travel abroad for treatment.
“Today, very few patients need to leave our countries for medical care as nearly all conditions can now be treated within East Africa,” Majaliwa stated.
The Prime Minister also encouraged healthcare investors to consider investing in Tanzania, noting that the government has implemented investor-friendly policies, particularly in the health sector, to meet the high demand for quality medical services in the country.
“We welcome all investors interested in the health sector. Our policies, laws, and regulations are designed to support investment, and we are eager to acquire new technologies for advanced medical services,” he said.
Majaliwa further urged regional health stakeholders to develop strategies for enhancing healthcare systems and coordinating efforts to address diseases. “This conference should serve as a platform for creating joint strategies to tackle epidemics, infectious and non-communicable diseases, as well as emerging diseases related to climate change,” he added.
Deputy Minister for Health Dr. Godwin Mollel reported that government investments at the grassroots level have improved early disease detection. “Referrals abroad have significantly decreased. Previously, nearly all patients arriving at Ocean Road Cancer Institute were in advanced stages of illness. Thanks to these investments, over 70% of patients now present with diseases at an early stage,” he said.
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