MCHENGERWA COMMENDS SPANISH TILES FOR ARUSHA CANCER CENTRE PROJECT, ORDERS SERVICES TO COMMENCE WITHIN TWO WEEKS
By Joseph Ngilisho – Arusha
The Minister for Health, Mohamed Mchengerwa, has commended Spanish Tiles for its significant contribution to the construction of a Cancer Treatment Services Building in Arusha, describing the project as a strong example of effective collaboration between the Government and the private sector in strengthening healthcare delivery in Tanzania.
The Minister made the remarks on January 26, 2026, during the foundation stone–laying ceremony of the cancer facility being constructed with funding from Spanish Tiles at the Mount Meru Regional Referral Hospital. The centre is expected to serve not only the Arusha Region but also neighbouring regions.
Speaking at the event, Minister Mchengerwa directed the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Seif Shekalaghe, to ensure that all necessary medical equipment is delivered to the hospital within two weeks, enabling immediate commencement of cancer treatment services.
“There is no justification for delaying these services. Once the equipment arrives, Tanzanians should begin receiving cancer treatment right here in Arusha without having to travel long distances,” the Minister emphasized.
He further expressed his appreciation to Spanish Tiles, under the leadership of its Director, Mr. Bobby Chadha, for financing the construction of the facility, noting that the initiative will save many lives and significantly reduce the financial burden associated with cancer treatment.
Minister Mchengerwa also called upon other business leaders and investors to emulate Spanish Tiles by investing in the health sector, stressing that private sector participation remains a critical pillar in achieving the Government’s goal of quality healthcare services for all.
On his part, Spanish Tiles Director, Mr. Bobby Chadha, thanked the Government for fostering a conducive environment for collaboration with development partners, stating that the company was inspired by the call of the President of the United Republic of Tanzania to continuously improve healthcare services nationwide.
Mr. Chadha explained that the company’s decision to support the construction of the Arusha cancer facility was influenced by the strategic importance of the region, particularly due to its high number of tourists and the growing demand for specialised medical services.
“We consider it our responsibility as development partners to work hand in hand with the Government to bring these critical services closer to the people,” said Mr. Chadha.
In a further development, Mr. Chadha agreed to the Minister’s request, after Minister Mchengerwa indicated that the Government is prepared to identify other areas with urgent healthcare needs where the company could expand its investment and further support service delivery.
The completion of the cancer treatment facility is expected to significantly reduce the time and high costs previously incurred by patients who were forced to travel to Ocean Road Cancer Institute in Dar es Salaam or seek treatment abroad. With the availability of specialised cancer services in Arusha, the project is set to ease the economic burden on patients while enhancing treatment efficiency and access to care.
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