President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania has announced a comprehensive €59 million (Sh169.872 billion) plan to strengthen cancer diagnosis and treatment across the nation by expanding centers equipped with nuclear technology. The initiative aims to enhance healthcare services and improve cancer care nationwide.
The announcement, delivered by Zanzibar’s President Dr. Hussein Mwinyi on behalf of President Hassan, took place at the inauguration of new offices and laboratories for the Tanzania Atomic Energy Commission (TAEC) in Zanzibar on Monday, November 11, 2024.
The initiative will bolster existing cancer centers at Ocean Road in Dar es Salaam and Bugando in Mwanza, while four new centers will be established at Benjamini Mkapa Hospital in Dodoma, KCMC in Moshi, Mnazi Mmoja in Zanzibar, and Mbeya Referral Hospital. Bunker construction for nuclear equipment has already started at Benjamini Mkapa Hospital and KCMC, with additional plans underway for Mnazi Mmoja and Mbeya Referral Hospital. Once completed, Tanzania will have six government-run cancer centers in key regions.
President Hassan highlighted the significant benefits of nuclear technology for health diagnostics and cancer treatment, adding that Tanzania’s participation in various international agreements on nuclear technology and radiation regulation has already yielded positive outcomes. She expressed gratitude to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and development partners for their support in enhancing Tanzania’s infrastructure, equipment, and expertise in safe nuclear technology usage.
To address the shortage of specialists in nuclear science and technology, the government has launched the “Samia Scholarship Extended,” a funding program aimed at supporting Tanzanian youth in pursuing advanced studies in nuclear science and technology abroad.
Prof. Najat Mohammed, Director General of TAEC, noted that the new Sh3 billion TAEC facility, which includes 17 offices and five laboratories, will support national nuclear policies and provide essential services, reducing radiation technology costs and enhancing industrial support.
TAEC Board Chairman Prof. Joseph Msambichaka emphasized the cooperation between Zanzibar and the mainland, noting that additional land was allocated by the Zanzibar government for the project. Zanzibar’s Health Minister Nassoro Ahmed Mazrui welcomed the initiative, noting its potential to strengthen healthcare and support plans for a local cancer center.
The Deputy Minister for Education, Science, and Technology, Omar Kipanga, also praised TAEC’s contributions, stating that the new equipment would promote productivity and ensure safe radiation practices across Tanzania.
