Exim Bank Tanzania recently hosted the ‘Exim Bima Festival 2024,’ a significant event aimed at raising awareness and funds to support mental health services. Marking 27 years of service to Tanzanians, the bank launched the festival under the theme ‘Amsha Matumaini,’ gathering stakeholders such as insurance companies, healthcare professionals, employees, and sports figures at the Gymkhana Grounds in Dar es Salaam.
The festival served as both an entertainment platform and a call to action for Tanzanians to support mental health awareness and care. As mental health issues continue to rise in the country, the event presented a unique opportunity for individuals and organizations to collaborate in raising funds and advocating for better mental health care.
Ridhiwani Kikwete, the Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, officiated the event on behalf of Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa. He praised Exim Bank for its contributions to healthcare and urged other companies to prioritize mental health. Kikwete emphasized that mental health should be a shared responsibility, involving corporations, NGOs, development partners, and the community.
The Exim Bima Festival 2024 is part of Exim Bank’s ‘Exim Cares’ initiative, focusing on raising awareness about insurance and improving access to mental health services. The bank has pledged to raise TZS 300 million over the next three years to support mental health services and infrastructure development across the country.
Jaffari Matundu, CEO of Exim Bank Tanzania, highlighted the growing mental health crisis, particularly among individuals aged 15 to 39, who make up the country’s key workforce. He noted that of Tanzania’s 28 regions, only five have mental health centers that meet national standards, underscoring the urgent need for action to protect the country’s future.
Exim Bank’s efforts align with the Tanzanian government’s goal of providing accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare to all, including mental health services. By expanding these services, the bank aims to create a healthcare system that benefits every Tanzanian, no matter where they are located.