The Tanzanian government has underscored the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors to enhance cancer care services across the country.
On October 16, 2024, Chief Medical Officer Prof. Tumaini Nagu emphasized this during discussions with Aga Khan Hospital and University management on the expansion of cancer care services.
The project, jointly supported by the Tanzanian Government, Aga Khan Development Network, the French Development Bank, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, focuses on early detection and treatment of breast and cervical cancers.
Prof. Nagu praised Aga Khan Tanzania for successfully managing the first phase of the project and highlighted the significance of the second phase, which aligns with the government’s vision to improve healthcare services through public-private collaboration.
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He stressed that the project should support the government’s efforts, particularly in expanding health insurance coverage to ensure wider access to cancer treatment.
Additionally, Prof. Nagu emphasized the need to invest in quality healthcare services, especially through the establishment of accreditation bodies and the development of cancer treatment guidelines.
He also called for community involvement, including training community health workers (CHWs) to raise awareness and extend cancer care to grassroots levels.
The collaboration aims to strengthen Tanzania’s cancer infrastructure while ensuring accessible and standardized care across the nation. Prof. Nagu’s remarks highlight the government’s commitment to improving the healthcare system through meaningful partnerships.