Tanzania Bars Supermarkets from Issuing Sweets as Change

The Tanzanian government has directed supermarkets to stop issuing sweets and other high-sugar products to customers instead of cash change. This move is part of broader efforts to improve nutrition and reduce sugar consumption across the country. Chief Medical Officer, Prof Bruno Sunguya, issued the directive on Monday, November 9, 2026, in a statement marking NCD Week.

Prof Sunguya urged consumers to insist on receiving their actual monetary change and cautioned business owners against pressuring customers to accept confectionery instead. He also advised organisers of festivals, seminars, and corporate workshops to replace fizzy drinks, biscuits, and sweetened juices with healthier alternatives, including fresh fruit, safe drinking water, peanuts, and cashew nuts.

The directive is aimed at reducing the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which account for approximately 39 percent of all deaths in Tanzania. NCDs include diabetes, cancer, hypertension, chronic respiratory diseases, sickle cell disease, and mental health disorders. Their major risk factors include physical inactivity, unhealthy diets, tobacco use, and excessive alcohol consumption.

Public health analyst Dr Ernest Winchislaus welcomed the measure, warning that excessive consumption of processed foods, fizzy drinks, and sweets contributes to the rising prevalence of diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases across all age groups. He emphasised that good health begins with everyday lifestyle choices rather than in hospitals.

Mbezi resident Sosthnes Paul called on regulatory authorities to enforce consumer rights while urging traders facing shortages of coins to seek mutually agreed solutions rather than unilaterally replacing cash with sweets. This move is expected to promote healthier lifestyles and reduce the burden on the healthcare system.

The national initiative, launched in May 2026 by Health Minister Mohamed Mchengerwa, encourages regular health screenings and provides free regional screening for breast and cervical cancers, along with genetic testing for sickle cell disease. The campaign's theme, "Know your numbers, take action, save lives," aims to encourage citizens to monitor key health indicators.

The government is urging citizens to monitor key health indicators, including obesity, blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg or higher, fasting blood sugar levels above seven millimoles per litre, random blood sugar readings of 11 millimoles per litre or higher, and levels of bad cholesterol. By taking these steps, Tanzanians can take preventive action against NCDs and promote a healthier lifestyle.

Key points

• The Tanzanian government has allocated Sh15.7 billion to bolster financing of NCDs.
• Tanzania ranks eighth in Africa for health sector development.
• The national campaign encourages regular health screenings and provides free regional screening for breast and cervical cancers.