Mwinyi calls concerted efforts to address health challenges

ZANZIBAR: THE Zanzibar government has pledged to strengthen cooperation with the private sector and development partners to support initiatives for the objective of achieving better healthcare provision for all citizens.

Speaking during the closing of the 11th Tanzania Health Summit (THS) in the isles, Zanzibar President Dr Hussein Mwinyi said his government is on the right track to overcome challenges in the health sector in collaboration with the private sector and development partners.

“We are already on the right track. By joining our forces through PPP (Public-Private Partnership), we can overcome the challenges facing the health sector and make our country a better place by reducing or eliminating maternal and child deaths, improving infrastructure, ensuring access to essential drugs and health information and controlling the spread of communicable and non-communicable diseases,” Dr Mwinyi said.

Dr Mwinyi expressed his expectations that the recommendations from the conference will not just be left in files, but will be a guide in strengthening the health sector in the country.

“We must consider the recommendations from you as experts and implement them, for the purpose of increasing efficiency in serving all Tanzanians on the basis of equality and justice.  I am therefore directing the Ministry of Health in Zanzibar to take these recommendations and consider them in the annual work plans,” Dr Mwinyi said.

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The President expressed his gratitude to the organisers of the conference for choosing Zanzibar as a venue and that it is a matter of pride to see that THS continues to make an important contribution to strengthening health services in the country.

Zanzibar Minister for Health, Mr Nassor Ahmed Mazrui also stressed for the strengthening of healthcare using technology in serving people.

Mr Mazrui said that various achievements are expected to be realised following the THS meeting, including the strengthening cooperation with the private sector, improving maternal and reproductive services and strengthening sustainable health systems to control various challenges including the emerging spread of HIV /AIDS.

According to   THS President Dr Omary Chillo, this year, under the theme “Igniting Progress: Joining Efforts for Quality Healthcare Through Public-Private Partnerships,” the three-day event for the entire healthcare ecosystem, is aimed at connecting and developing relationships that truly move the SDG (Sustainable Development Goals) agenda.

He said over the past ten years, THS has become a cornerstone for positive change in the country’s healthcare landscape.