Health experts have highlighted the potential of music as a simple yet powerful tool for easing pain, reducing anxiety, and improving the quality of life for people living with serious illnesses. This approach was discussed at the fourth East African Public Health Palliative Care Scientific Congress, held at the University of Dar es Salaam on October 2, 2026. Experts emphasized that palliative care should address patients' emotional, social, psychological, and spiritual needs alongside physical pain.
The congress, organized by the East African Public Health Palliative Care Scientific Congress, brought together experts who called for the integration of non-medical approaches, including music, into palliative care. Chairman of the congress organizing committee, Dr. Mkabwa Manoko, noted that music and other humanities can provide comfort, strengthen emotional connections, and help reduce stress and pain. He cited the example of food, which can be both medicine and a way to show love and care.
According to Dr. Manoko, music can be particularly helpful for patients who struggle to express their feelings through words. Familiar songs can evoke memories, create a sense of calm, and allow relatives to participate in caring for their loved ones. However, he emphasized that music is not intended to replace medical treatment but rather complement it by addressing forms of suffering that medicines alone may not resolve.
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Health, Director of Medical Services Dr. Hamad Nyembea emphasized the need for palliative care to become an integral part of Tanzania's health system. He cited the growing burden of cancer and other chronic illnesses in the country, with approximately 42,000 new cancer cases reported annually. Dr. Nyembea noted that greater public awareness is needed, as the term "palliative care" is not widely understood among ordinary Tanzanians.
Dr. Nyembea highlighted the importance of using simple language to explain palliative care, citing the example of "tiba shufaa," which is more relatable to the general public. He emphasized that healthcare workers have a responsibility to reduce avoidable suffering and help patients live and die with dignity. The Ministry is strengthening palliative care at the primary healthcare level to enable patients to receive support closer to home.
Former Prime Minister Mizengo Pinda urged Tanzanians to support people experiencing suffering, viewing palliative care as an expression of humanity towards those facing illness, disability, old age, and other vulnerabilities. He emphasized that patients often need more than just medicine, citing the importance of emotional support and human connection. EAPCON president Dr. Frank Manase noted that suffering extends beyond physical pain, encompassing psychological, social, and spiritual pain.
The congress highlighted the need for a broader approach to palliative care, recognizing that suffering is a multifaceted issue. Dr. Manase emphasized that palliative care is at the heart of medicine, and that healthcare workers should strive to address the complex needs of patients. The Ministry's efforts to expand home-care networks and train health workers are part of a larger effort to improve palliative care in Tanzania.
Key points
- Music is being explored as a tool to ease pain and reduce anxiety in palliative care.
- Palliative care should address patients' emotional, social, psychological, and spiritual needs alongside physical pain.
- Tanzania faces a growing burden of cancer and other chronic illnesses, highlighting the need for improved palliative care.
