In a remarkable show of support, the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) has donated TZS 50 million to the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI), marking a significant contribution towards life-saving treatment for 1,500 children with critical heart conditions.
The donation was announced during a fundraising event held at Johari Rotana in Dar es Salaam on November 2, 2024, with former President Jakaya Kikwete serving as the guest of honor.
The event, themed “Bring Light, Touch Hearts, and Bring Hope to Children,” was a collaborative effort to address the pressing healthcare needs of Tanzanian families who are unable to meet the costs of specialized treatment.
Although the government covers 70% of the treatment costs, this initiative aims to raise the remaining 30% for each child, easing the financial burden on families and ensuring these children have access to essential cardiac care.
Leaders and advocates at the event emphasized the importance of community involvement, calling on businesses, public and private institutions, and individuals to unite in support.
Former President Kikwete highlighted the role of collective responsibility in supporting children’s health, while Deputy Speaker Musa Azzan Zungu, who also heads the Heart Team Africa Foundation, stressed that many of the children come from underprivileged backgrounds.
Dr. Peter Kisenge, JKCI’s Director General, expressed appreciation for President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s dedication to transforming Tanzania’s healthcare sector, including investments in modern medical equipment and the training of specialists.
This development, he noted, has enabled JKCI to attract patients from other countries seeking specialized care.
The event symbolized a powerful blend of generosity and hope, reminding Tanzanians of the profound impact of coming together to change lives and strengthen the nation’s healthcare system.