We officially launched our 20th anniversary celebrations through a press conference, marking two decades of sustained investment in strengthening health systems and the health workforce in Tanzania.
As we reflect on this milestone, we recognize the journey we have taken to expand access to quality healthcare, particularly for underserved communities. Our 20-year commemoration will be accompanied by a series of key national events, including free medical outreach camps, a two-day Human Resources for Health Conference, and the 4th Mkapa Legacy Summit 2026.
Over the past 20 years, we have reached more than 33 million Tanzanians through a wide range of health services and interventions. In partnership with the Government, we have recruited and deployed 18,119 health workers to underserved areas, strengthening service delivery where it is needed most. We have also supported 10,615 community health workers, who have served over 10.6 million citizens across the country.
Investing in people has remained at the core of our work. We have provided scholarships to more than 1,200 medical students, helping to build the next generation of healthcare professionals. At the same time, we have strengthened health infrastructure through the construction of 480 staff houses and 12 surgical theatres at the primary healthcare level, improving access to essential services in rural and hard to reach areas.
Through our close collaboration with the Ministry of Health, we have contributed to the development and review of more than 12 national health policies and guidelines. We have also played a key role in supporting the country’s response to public health emergencies, reinforcing our commitment as a trusted partner in Tanzania’s health sector.
To ensure long term sustainability of our work, we have, since 2012, expanded alternative financing mechanisms to complement donor support. These efforts include strengthening private sector partnerships, establishing Imara Horizon Company, the owner of Mkapa Health Plaza, and launching the BMF Endowment Fund in 2021.
As part of our anniversary celebrations, we will host a series of high level events in July 2026. The Human Resources for Health Conference, taking place on July 14 and 15, will bring together more than 1,000 participants under the theme “Reimagining the health workforce in Africa: innovation, leadership, and resilience.”
For the first time, Day One will feature a dedicated Youth Day, ensuring that young people actively contribute to discussions, innovation, and solutions. This Youth Conference will culminate in a Youth Call to Action to be presented to the Guest of Honour.
The highlight of our celebrations will be the 4th Mkapa Legacy Summit 2026 on July 16, held under the theme “From Legacy to Future: Excellence in Leadership, Health Systems, and Youth-Led Human Capital for Africa.” The event is expected to be graced by Her Excellency Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania, alongside His Excellency Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi, President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, who also serves as settlor of our Foundation.
As we mark 20 years of impact, these commemorations are not only a reflection of how far we have come, but also a collective call to action. We remain committed to strengthening partnerships, investing in youth, and shaping a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable future for health systems in Tanzania and across Africa.