TASAF injects TZS 1.32 billion into development projects in Pemba

The Tanzania Social Action Fund (TASAF) is driving transformative development on Pemba Island with seven ambitious projects valued at TZS 1.32 billion to enhance access to essential services and uplift communities from poverty.

The projects focus on constructing infrastructure in the education, health, and transport sectors. 

Among them is the construction of Dodo Primary School, an investment of over TZS 184.8 million, whose foundation stone was recently laid.

The event was officiated by Zanzibar's Minister for Blue Economy and Fisheries, Mr. Shaaban Ali Othman, as part of the 61st anniversary celebrations of the Zanzibar Revolution.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Othman applauded TASAF’s pivotal role in addressing poverty and improving livelihoods through impactful projects.

“TASAF has been instrumental in empowering households and communities to achieve economic stability. Its initiatives under the Productive Social Safety Net (PSSN) Program are uplifting lives and transforming the nation,” he said in a statement.

He called on the community to protect and maintain the infrastructure being developed to ensure it benefits future generations.

Related article: TASAF completes TZS 342 million Upenja health facility in Zanzibar

“These projects are for all of us. Let’s safeguard them, work together to ensure timely completion, and preserve them so they serve our children and grandchildren for years to come,” Mr. Othman emphasized.

TASAF’s ICT Specialist, Peter Lwanda, speaking on behalf of Executive Director Shedrack Mziray, highlighted the organization’s commitment to improving infrastructure in Pemba. 

According to him, over TZS 3.1 billion has been allocated for 15 projects under the program’s second phase focusing on education, health, and water sectors.

“This year, seven projects worth more than TZS 1.32 billion are being implemented in Pemba. These include the construction of Dodo Primary School, health facilities, and bridges to enhance connectivity,” Lwanda explained.

He also emphasized TASAF’s integration with the Higher Education Students’ Loans Board (HESLB), which facilitates access to loans for students from beneficiary households.

“Through this partnership, 8,274 students from TASAF-supported households have accessed higher education loans by November 2024. This initiative has significantly reduced barriers for these students,” he said.

TASAF’s efforts continue to bring hope and progress to communities, building a foundation for sustainable development and shared prosperity.

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Minister Ndumbaro donates medical equipment to Songea referral Hospital

 

ByAlfred Zacharia

On December 28, 2024, Hon. Dr. Damas Ndumbaro, the Minister for Constitutional and Legal Affairs and Member of Parliament for Songea Urban, officially handed over essential medical equipment to the Ruvuma Regional Referral Hospital, located in Songea Municipality

. This donation, which targets the hospital’s physiotherapy services, addresses a critical gap in healthcare provision that has long impacted the facility. The hospital had been facing a shortage of necessary physiotherapy equipment, which had hindered its ability to meet the increasing demand for rehabilitation services.

This contribution is a significant development in the government’s ongoing efforts to improve healthcare services across Tanzania. The physiotherapy department at the hospital had struggled with limited resources, resulting in delays for patients who needed timely rehabilitation

. Many patients had to wait longer than necessary for treatment, which often extended their hospital stays and compromised their overall recovery. The shortage of equipment was a major challenge that the government has now taken steps to resolve.

During the handover ceremony, Hon. Ndumbaro underscored the importance of improving healthcare infrastructure and services, particularly in rural and underserved regions

. He explained that the new medical equipment was provided through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), a government initiative aimed at addressing local challenges and enhancing the quality of life for citizens in different regions. The CDF supports a range of development projects, and this donation reflects the government’s commitment to the health and well-being of the people of Songea and surrounding areas.

Hon. Ndumbaro emphasized that the provision of this equipment is just one example of the government's broader strategy to tackle the challenges faced by the healthcare sector. He reaffirmed the government’s dedication to ensuring that all Tanzanians have access to high-quality healthcare services, which is vital for improving public health outcomes.

 The donation also reflects the government's recognition of the essential role that well-equipped healthcare facilities play in the recovery and rehabilitation of patients.

Dr. Majura, the Medical Officer in Charge of Ruvuma Regional Referral Hospital, expressed profound gratitude on behalf of the hospital staff and patients. He highlighted the immense impact that the new equipment would have on the hospital’s ability to treat patients effectively and efficiently.

 With the introduction of this equipment, the hospital will be able to significantly reduce the time patients spend waiting for physiotherapy treatments, allowing more individuals to receive care within shorter periods. This increase in treatment capacity is expected to improve overall patient outcomes, as shorter hospital stays and quicker interventions typically result in better recovery rates.

Furthermore, Dr. Majura assured that the hospital’s management is committed to maintaining the equipment to ensure its longevity and effectiveness. Proper maintenance and use of the equipment will guarantee that the hospital continues to provide high-quality services, benefiting both patients and the community at large

. He also acknowledged that the donation would help improve the hospital’s reputation as a leading healthcare provider in the region, attracting more patients who can now receive comprehensive care without the long delays previously experienced.

The handover of the medical equipment to Ruvuma Regional Referral Hospital represents a broader national effort to strengthen Tanzania’s healthcare system. By addressing gaps in essential medical resources and ensuring healthcare facilities are adequately equipped, the government is moving toward its goal of providing accessible, high-quality healthcare services to all citizens.

 This donation is a vital step in improving the quality of care in underserved regions, such as Ruvuma, and underscores the government’s commitment to the continuous development of the healthcare sector. The positive impact of this initiative will be felt not only by the patients who benefit from the improved services but also by the community, which stands to gain from better health outcomes and enhanced healthcare accessibility.

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Tanzanian government ensures ambulance benefits Tarime residents

 

By alfred zacharia

The Government of the United Republic of Tanzania, led by President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing the health sector and improving the welfare of its citizens. 

This was exemplified by the handover of an ambulance to the Magoto Health Center in Tarime District, Mara Region, with a clear directive for its responsible and equitable use.

While officially handing over the ambulance, Tarime District Commissioner Major Edward Gowele stressed that the vehicle, provided by the government, must be used strictly for health services and without discrimination. 

He noted that the ambulance would significantly alleviate transportation challenges for patients in Magoto and neighboring wards when referred to the Tarime District Hospital.

"I thank President Samia for her unwavering dedication to improving healthcare. I urge those entrusted with this ambulance to ensure fairness and accessibility for all, with no citizen facing unnecessary challenges or discrimination in receiving services," said Major Gowele.

He emphasized that the ambulance is not for commercial purposes and should only serve the community. 

Any fees, if required, should cover service costs and remain affordable.

"This vehicle is not for business. If charges are necessary, they will be modest and strictly for operational needs. The President has been relentless in providing essential medical equipment. Her efforts are so vast that listing them would take all day. Let us continue praying for President Dr. Samia," he added.

Meanwhile, Eliakimu Maswi, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Constitution and Legal Affairs, urged Tarime residents to foster unity and political harmony to accelerate development.

"The development of Tarime is a shared responsibility for all citizens. Political leaders must collaborate and avoid conflicts, as such divisions delay progress in the district," Maswi stressed.

The new ambulance is expected to improve healthcare access for residents, reinforcing the government's commitment to ensuring that essential health services reach all citizens equitably.

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Tanzania allocates TZS 900 Million to improve for maternity health in Ukerewe

By Alfred Zacharia

The government of Tanzania has provided TZS 900 million to build a new maternity ward at Ukerewe District Hospital with a view of improving healthcare services for mothers and newborns in the district. 

The funding is part of President Samia Suluhu Hassan's efforts to improve healthcare across the country, especially in areas with limited access to essential services.

Ukerewe has faced challenges in maternal healthcare for years as women often travel long distances to get treatment, which has led to complications during childbirth and, in some cases, loss of lives. 

The new maternity ward is expected to address these issues and provide better care for mothers and babies.

Mwanza Regional Commissioner Said Mtanda visited the hospital on Friday, December 27, 2024, to inspect the project but just found that the construction, which was supposed to be finished in June, has been delayed by six months. 

Mtanda directed the project team to complete the work in 20 days.

“The government has sent TZS 900 million to build this important maternity ward to improve healthcare for the people. Supervisors must not delay this work,” Mtanda said.

He also expressed concern about the use of funds. Only 85% of the money has been paid to workers and contractors since the funds were released in March 2024. 

This has slowed down the progress of the project. Mtanda ordered the contractor responsible for delivering doors for the building to ensure they are provided immediately.

In addition, Mtanda promised to speak with the Ministry of Health about funding for other planned expansion projects at the hospital.

This maternity ward is expected to make a big difference in Ukerewe. It will allow women to receive care closer to home and reduce risks during childbirth. The facility is part of a larger plan by the government to improve healthcare in rural and underserved areas.

With the completion of this project, Ukerewe District Hospital will be better equipped to provide quality maternal healthcare. This will contribute to saving lives and ensuring healthier futures for mothers and their children in the district.

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SHIMBATA pleads for President Samia to extend medical assistance for Likwepa

By Victoria Godfrey

The Tanzania Bao Federation (SHIMBATA) has called on President Samia Suluhu Hassan to extend support in covering the medical expenses of its president, Monday Likwepa, who is currently battling health challenges.

Speaking at a press briefing in Dar es Salaam on December 27, 2024, SHIMBATA representative Sheikh Rashid Kayumbo highlighted Likwepa’s significant contributions to the game of bao and the urgent need for medical intervention. 

Likwepa is presently receiving treatment at the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute within Muhimbili National Hospital, with additional care potentially required abroad.

“Monday Likwepa is the only Tanzanian who has carried forward the dreams and vision of the late Mwalimu Julius Nyerere to elevate bao into a globally recognized sport,” said Kayumbo.

He emphasized that Likwepa’s efforts are not only about advancing the sport but also preserving it as an integral part of Tanzania’s cultural heritage.

“Through his unwavering commitment and personal sacrifices, Likwepa represented Tanzania on the international stage, notably at a major tournament in Kazakhstan this past September,” Kayumbo added.

Kayumbo further noted Likwepa’s role as a true patriot, saying, “He has worked tirelessly to promote the country and ensure bao gains the recognition it deserves worldwide.”

SHIMBATA is hopeful that the government, under President Samia’s leadership, will acknowledge Likwepa’s dedication to the sport and the nation by supporting his recovery and medical needs.

The federation reiterated its commitment to carrying forward Likwepa’s vision of making bao a cornerstone of both Tanzania’s cultural and sports identity.

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