TANZANIA is witnessing a sharp rise in medical tourism, thanks to significant investments in the health sector by the government, Health Minister Jenista Mhagama announced on Monday.

Presenting her ministry's budget proposals for the 2025/2026 financial year in Parliament, Mhagama said the number of foreign patients seeking specialised treatment in Tanzania has more than doubled over the past four years. According to ministry data, the figure rose from 5,705 patients in 2021 to 12,180 by March 2025.

“This upward trend underscores Tanzania’s emerging reputation as a hub for advanced medical care in the region,” Mhagama said, noting that patients are arriving from across Africa and beyond.

Countries from which patients are traveling to Tanzania include Comoros, Malawi, Burundi, Zambia, Rwanda, South Africa, Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sudan, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, Somalia, Kenya, Egypt, and Mauritius.

Mhagama attributed the increase in international patients to the government’s continued commitment to strengthening the healthcare system. She said Tanzania is now offering specialised services in key areas such as oncology, cardiology, nephrology, orthopaedics, and diagnostic imaging—services that were previously unavailable or only accessible abroad.

“Our investment in modern infrastructure, cutting-edge medical equipment, and the training of specialists has significantly improved the quality and scope of care available in Tanzania,” she told lawmakers. “This has not only reduced the number of Tanzanians seeking treatment abroad but also attracted patients from neighboring countries.”

She cited several flagship facilities, including the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute and the Ocean Road Cancer Institute, as among those playing a pivotal role in attracting medical tourists.

The minister said her ministry plans to build on this momentum by continuing to strengthen referral hospitals, increase training for healthcare professionals, and improve access to advanced diagnostics and treatment at regional levels.

Mhagama also noted that the surge in medical tourism is contributing to national economic growth. “Beyond health outcomes, the medical tourism sector is creating jobs and supporting local businesses—from hotels and transport services to pharmacies and laboratories,” she said.

She concluded by reaffirming the government’s vision to position Tanzania as one of Africa’s leading destinations for quality, affordable, and accessible healthcare.