President Samia to receive Goalkeepers Award for maternal mortality reduction

Dar es Salaam. President Samia Suluhu Hassan is set to receive the prestigious Goalkeepers Award on Tuesday, in recognition of her exceptional leadership and Tanzania’s remarkable progress in reducing maternal mortality by 80 percent, as revealed in the 2022 Demographic and Health Survey report.

This year’s award ceremony marks a historic milestone, as it will be held outside the United States for the first time and for the first time in Tanzania.

Health Minister Jenista Mhagama, in a statement issued by the Ministry of Health, highlighted that President Samia is the first African leader to receive this distinguished accolade.

“President Samia’s leadership has led to extraordinary improvements in the health sector in Tanzania, and her efforts have garnered recognition from global powers,” the statement read.

Mhagama praised the president for her role in fostering an environment conducive to the successful implementation of health strategies that have significantly enhanced maternal and child health services across the country.

The minister attributed the achievements to President Samia’s political will and the strategic implementation of policies aimed at improving healthcare access, with a particular focus on maternal health.

Under her leadership, the government has increased funding for health services, expanded the availability of medicines and medical supplies, and constructed over 530 delivery centers to bring maternal emergency services closer to communities.

Minister Mhagama also commended the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for its recognition and support of the government’s ongoing efforts to combat maternal mortality, infant deaths, and fatalities among children under five years old.

She urged Tanzanians to join in celebrating the president’s success and take pride in the country’s achievements, which are now being recognised on the global stage. “As President Samia shines both within and beyond Tanzania’s borders, let us walk with our heads held high,” Mhagama added.

The Goalkeepers Award, presented by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, recognises leaders who have shown extraordinary commitment to advancing the health and wellbeing of their citizens.

President Samia’s award underscores her significant contribution to Tanzania’s health sector and its continuous improvements in maternal and child health.