MORE than 20,000 citizens are expected to receive free screening and treatment for non-communicable diseases, including heart conditions, hypertension and diabetes, across various regions by 2025.

The service is being implemented by the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI), with funding from President Samia Suluhu Hassan through the ' Samia Suluhu Medical Kit' initiative, which allows specialist doctors from the institute to provide free services in different regions of the country.

Dr Peter Kisenge, JKCI Executive Director said that yesterday that to date, over 18,000 citizens from 17 regions have benefitted from the initiative, receiving screening and treatment for conditions identified during the assessments.

Dr Kisenge explained that the programme was launched following a proposal from President Dr Samia to provide screenings and treatment in local communities, aiming to reduce the costs and time spent travelling to larger hospitals.

“By initiating the Samia Medical Kit service in January last year, we have been able to reach a wide number of citizens, significantly improving their health. The public response has been overwhelming,” Dr. Kisenge said.

He added that the service has reached various groups, including journalists, who have been given the opportunity to undergo free health screenings and help raise awareness about the importance of regular health checks.

Dr Tulizo Shemu,  director of JKCI-Dar Group Hospital and a Cardiology Specialist, emphasised that the programme will continue to encourage all artists in the country to get screened early, which will help in the early detection of non-communicable diseases and timely treatment.

“It is crucial for artists to take the initiative to undergo health screenings early, as it helps in identifying their health status, particularly the early signs of non-communicable diseases, and enables timely medical intervention,” Dr. Shemu said.

Dr. Gelvas Kasiga, the acting Executive Secretary of the Tanzania Film Board (TFB), stated that the initiative will help artists understand their health status, allowing them to work freely and achieve their professional goals.

Dr Johnstone Ndabila, a doctor at the JKCI Kawe Centre, said they continue to encourage citizens to take advantage of the opportunity and visit the various medical centres offering free services for non-communicable diseases, including heart conditions, diabetes, and hypertension.

The ongoing initiative continues to promote the importance of early detection and treatment of chronic health conditions, helping thousands of Tanzanians lead healthier lives.