The Ministry of Health and the President’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG), in collaboration with dental stakeholders, have announced the first-ever Tanzania Dental Expo, scheduled to take place from May 30 to 31, 2025, in Dar es Salaam.

The event will convene both local and international oral health professionals, offering free consultations and screenings, as well as showcasing advanced dental technologies.

Speaking yesterday in Dar es Salaam, Dr Ambege Mwakatobe, Expo Director and member of the World Dental Federation (FDI), confirmed that preparations for the event are complete. Industry and Trade Minister Dr Selemani Jaffo is expected to officiate the opening.

“We expect experts from Europe, Asia, and America to present cutting-edge technologies in oral and dental care,” said Dr Mwakatobe.

 “This is a unique opportunity for Tanzanian professionals to upgrade their skills, and for the public to access world-class dental services free of charge.”

He noted that more than 3.5 billion people globally suffer from oral health issues, making the expo a critical platform for raising awareness and expanding access to treatment.

Dr Baraka Nzobo, Chairperson of the Expo Board, underscored the transformative potential of the event. “This is a game-changer for Tanzania’s oral healthcare. International experts will share tools and knowledge used in advanced health systems, helping local practitioners modernize their services,” he said.

He called on banks, health insurers, and other institutions to support and participate in the expo, pointing out that the event could foster new partnerships across sectors.

Dr Leonora Assevi urged the public to attend in large numbers, emphasizing the importance of regular dental check-ups and proper oral hygiene. “Oral health is closely linked to non-communicable diseases like diabetes. This event will help people understand and manage those risks,” she said.

The Tanzania Dental Expo is expected to be a milestone in elevating the standards of oral and dental health services nationwide.