Why Samia received the Global Goalkeeper Award for maternal and child health

Dar es Salaam. President Samia Suluhu Hassan was awarded the prestigious Global Goalkeeper Award by the Gates Foundation today, February 4, 2025, in recognition of Tanzania’s significant progress in maternal, newborn, child nutrition, and health (MNCNH).

Speaking shortly after receiving the award, President Hassan expressed her commitment to reducing maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent mortality, as well as improving nutrition, describing these as core aspects of Tanzania’s development agenda.

“I am honoured to stand before this gathering to accept this prestigious Global Goalkeeper Award. This recognition is not only encouraging but also inspiring, particularly given the Gates Foundation’s role as a key player in the global health agenda and a valuable partner to Tanzania,” said President Hassan.

As both a head of state and a mother, she underscored the importance of investment in maternal health, adding that upon assuming office, she pledged to prioritise maternal and child health by strengthening healthcare facilities and increasing staff numbers.

READ: Tanzania’s maternal health gains, gender equality earn accolades

Tanzania’s achievements include an 80 per cent reduction in maternal mortality and a one-third decrease in the under-five mortality rate within a decade, according to the country’s most recent Demographic and Health Survey (DHS 2022).

Presenting the award, the President of the Gender Equality Division at the Gates Foundation, Ms Anita Zaidi remarked, “Investing in women and children is an investment in healthy families, resilient communities, and a growing economy. In order to do well, you have to be well. When women have access to the tools and services they need to live healthy, productive lives, all of society benefits.”

She said that Tanzania’s advancements in antenatal care (ANC) and institutional births have further cemented its progress, with the provision of skilled care during pregnancy and childbirth playing a crucial role. Robust initiatives to improve child nutrition and health have positioned Tanzania as a global leader in maternal and child well-being.

For over 25 years, the Gates Foundation has partnered with Tanzania in its efforts to enhance healthcare, nutrition, agriculture, and financial inclusion.

“We look forward to supporting Tanzania in its next phase of progress for women and children’s health, including expanding access to proven interventions such as comprehensive prenatal vitamins, post-partum haemorrhage management, and staple foods fortified with essential nutrients,” said Anita Zaidi, President of the Gender Equality Division at the Gates Foundation.

Minister for Health Jenista Mhagama, in her address, highlighted Tanzania’s commendable strides in strengthening the healthcare system, expanding access to quality medical services, and implementing innovative solutions to address pressing health challenges under President Samia’s leadership.

“This award reflects the tangible impact of policies that prioritise maternal and child health, universal healthcare access, and the fight against communicable and non-communicable diseases,” said Minister Mhagama.

She further outlined President Samia’s dedication to the health sector, which has led to increased investment in healthcare infrastructure. The number of health facilities has risen from 8,458 in 2020 to 9,826 in 2024, while the number of hospitals with emergency medicine departments has increased from seven in 2020 to 113 in 2024. Similarly, the number of health facilities providing comprehensive maternal and neonatal care (CEMONC) has grown from 340 in 2020 to 523 in 2024.

Tanzania’s continued commitment to improving healthcare, particularly for women and children, is expected to further enhance the country’s standing as a leader in global health advancements.