Joseph Isangura
Tanzania is poised to cement its position as a leading destination for medical tourism in East Africa, with plans to introduce liver transplant services by the end of 2025.
This development builds on the country’s growing reputation for delivering specialized healthcare, including kidney transplants, cancer care, cardiac interventions, and advanced orthopaedic procedures, which have already drawn patients from neighboring countries.
Speaking over the weekend, the executive director of Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH), Professor Mohamed Janabi, highlighted the ongoing preparations for the liver transplant program. The initiative aligns with the Tanzanian government’s broader goal of enhancing access to advanced medical services domestically, reducing dependence on costly overseas medical referrals.
“A liver transplant abroad costs between $25,000 and $27,000, covering surgery, hospitalization, and post-operative care for both the patient and the donor,” Prof. Janabi noted. “Providing this service locally will make it significantly more affordable for Tanzanians and the region.”
To ensure the program’s success, MNH has partnered with internationally renowned hospitals to bolster local expertise. This collaboration includes hosting joint medical camps where specialists assess patients and train Tanzanian medical professionals. Recently, a team of international experts joined MNH staff to evaluate over 100 patients with liver conditions and assess the readiness of local infrastructure, including intensive care units and laboratory facilities.
Read More; Muhimbili Prepares for Liver Transplants by 2025
“The experts confirmed our hospital’s preparedness to initiate liver transplant services,” Prof. Janabi added.
The initiative is expected to position Tanzania as a regional hub for advanced medical care, offering a cost-effective alternative to traveling abroad. It reflects the government’s commitment to elevating the quality of healthcare services and ensuring that Tanzanians have access to life-saving treatments without leaving the country.
Additionally, the introduction of liver transplants is anticipated to stimulate further investments in healthcare infrastructure, training programs, and regional collaborations, marking a milestone in the country’s journey toward becoming a leader in medical innovation.
