Tanzania has been ranked eighth among 54 African countries in overall health sector development, according to the 2026 Ibrahim Index of African Governance (IIAG). The country scored 68.9 out of 100, representing a 9.6-point improvement from 2016. This score places Tanzania 10.4 points above the continental average of 58.5. Health Minister Mohamed Mchengerwa announced this achievement during the launch of a mobile medical clinic at Ujamaa Grounds in Ikwiriri, Rufiji District, Coast Region.
The IIAG score is based on 2025 data and assesses various health indicators. Tanzania exceeded the African average in five of the seven health indicators evaluated. These include maternal and child health, control of communicable and non-communicable diseases, public perceptions of healthcare delivery, access to and quality of health services, and access to water and sanitation. This progress is attributed to President Samia Suluhu Hassan's leadership and investment in the health sector.
A mobile medical clinic was launched in Rufiji District to provide free specialist consultations, examinations, and treatment to residents. The clinic brings together specialists from Muhimbili National Hospital, China, and Rufiji District Hospital. This initiative aims to reduce the cost and burden of traveling long distances for specialist care. Hundreds of residents had already turned up for the services, demonstrating the demand for accessible healthcare.
Health Minister Mohamed Mchengerwa urged residents to seek early screening and treatment. He emphasized that the initiative is part of the government's efforts to make specialist healthcare accessible regardless of where people live. The minister also addressed concerns about corruption in health colleges, directing the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health to form an investigation team.
The investigation team will work with the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB) to investigate allegations that some health college tutors were demanding bribes from students in exchange for placements at hospitals for practical training. Mchengerwa condemned the practice, calling for those implicated to face legal action. He stated that these demands placed an unfair financial burden on students from low-income families and undermined their right to practical training.
The mobile clinic was launched in the presence of Chinese Ambassador to Tanzania Chen Mingjian. This collaboration between Tanzanian and Chinese healthcare professionals aims to improve healthcare services in the region. The clinic's presence in Rufiji District is expected to have a positive impact on the local population's access to specialist care.
The government's efforts to improve healthcare in Tanzania include investments in infrastructure, personnel, and services. The country continues to work towards achieving better health outcomes for its citizens. With initiatives like the mobile clinic, the government aims to make healthcare more accessible and affordable for all Tanzanians.
Key points
- Tanzania scores 68.9 out of 100 in the 2026 Ibrahim Index of African Governance, ranking eighth in Africa for health sector development.
- The country exceeded the African average in five of the seven health indicators evaluated, including maternal and child health, and access to health services.
- A mobile medical clinic was launched in Rufiji District to provide free specialist consultations, examinations, and treatment to residents.
