The projects mark a major step towards reducing costly referrals abroad and expanding local capacity to manage non-communicable diseases
Dodoma. Tanzanians battling cancer and kidney failure will soon have greater access to advanced treatment, following the launch of a cancer training centre and a kidney transplant unit at Benjamin Mkapa Hospital.
The projects, officially launched by Vice President Dr Philip Mpango yesterday, September 3, 2025, mark a major step towards reducing costly referrals abroad and expanding local capacity to manage non-communicable diseases.
The kidney transplant centre alone is expected to serve around 14 million people, cutting the long waiting lists and easing the financial strain on families who often seek treatment in India or South Africa.
Benjamin Mkapa Hospital executive director, Prof Abeli Makubi, said the new facilities would also attract patients from neighbouring countries, turning Dodoma into a regional hub for specialised healthcare.
“These projects will significantly reduce the number of Tanzanians forced to seek treatment abroad. At the same time, they will give patients and families more affordable and accessible care closer to home,” he said.
Partnership with Japan
The cancer treatment centre is being developed in collaboration with the government of Japan, with Sh28 billion allocated for construction and medical equipment worth Sh13.4 billion to be installed.
Once complete, the centre will enhance cancer diagnosis, treatment, and training of medical professionals, addressing a disease burden that continues to rise in the country.
Preventive health push
Speaking at the launch, Vice President Mpango stressed that while investment in advanced treatment facilities was essential, prevention remained equally critical.
He called for health education to be taught from primary school to university level, to equip Tanzanians with knowledge on diet, exercise, and lifestyle habits that prevent non-communicable diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
“People must learn early how to eat properly, exercise regularly, and adopt healthy lifestyles. This is the only way to reduce the burden of disease and treatment costs,” said Dr Mpango.
Chairman of the hospital board, Prof Edward Hosea, urged the government to elevate Benjamin Mkapa Hospital to the status of a national hospital, citing its growing portfolio of specialised services and capacity to serve as a referral hub.
He also appealed for more staff housing and transport facilities to support the hospital’s expanding role.
The new centres are expected not only to save lives but also to position Tanzania as a leader in specialised healthcare within East and Central Africa.
