The Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar is investing significantly in healthcare development, with a focus on constructing hospitals, diagnostic facilities, and specialist treatment centers. This initiative aims to enable citizens to access quality healthcare services locally, reducing the need to seek medical treatment abroad. The investment plan was highlighted during the closing ceremony of a five-day medical camp held in North Unguja Region.
Between 2020 and 2025, the government invested $40 million in constructing 10 district hospitals across Unguja and Pemba, as well as Lumumba Regional Hospital. This investment is part of a larger plan to strengthen the health sector, with a total of $440 million committed for the period between 2026 and 2030. The goal is to improve healthcare services and make them more accessible to the local population.
A five-day medical camp was organized by the Zanzibar Maisha Bora Foundation, which provided various specialist services, including eye, heart, skin, ear, dental, and maternal and child health services. By November 6, 2026, a total of 4,121 people had received treatment, with the camp targeting 5,000 beneficiaries. The camp aimed to bring health services closer to the people and strengthen early disease screening.
Zanzibar's Second Vice-President, Hemed Suleiman Abdulla, commended the Zanzibar Maisha Bora Foundation Chairperson, Maryam Mwinyi, for her vision and efforts in establishing free medical outreach services for residents. He noted that the foundation ensures patients requiring advanced care receive referrals and follow-up services. The Vice-President also urged public leaders to take initiative in resolving operational challenges rather than referring them to higher authorities.
Health Minister Nassor Ahmed Mazrui assured residents that the government was ready to provide free follow-up treatment to those diagnosed with medical conditions during the camp. This move aims to ensure that patients receive necessary care and support. The government's commitment to providing quality healthcare services is evident in its investment plans and initiatives.
The Zanzibar Maisha Bora Foundation plans to continue organizing medical camps across Unguja and Pemba to reach underserved communities. The foundation's efforts are aligned with the government's goal of improving healthcare services and making them more accessible to the local population. The medical camps have been successful in providing specialist services to thousands of people.
The African First Ladies' "Building Resilience" campaign was launched by Zanzibar's Second Vice-President, which seeks to ensure uninterrupted healthcare delivery during climate shocks, disasters, and infrastructure disruptions. This initiative aims to promote healthcare resilience and preparedness in the face of challenges. The campaign's goals align with the government's efforts to strengthen the health sector and improve healthcare services.
Key points
- The government of Zanzibar has committed $440 million to strengthen the health sector between 2026 and 2030.
- A five-day medical camp organized by the Zanzibar Maisha Bora Foundation provided specialist services to 4,121 people by November 6, 2026.
- The government's investment plan aims to improve healthcare services and make them more accessible to the local population, reducing the need for medical travel abroad.
