AFCON 2027 Medical Readiness: CAF says Tanzania is on the right track after inspecting venues and health services, including Muhimbili National Hospital and the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute, with the CAF medical manager praising preparedness for players’ care. Universal Health Coverage in Parliament: In Dodoma, the Deputy Minister for Health says access is expanding through more facilities, 53,633 health workers recruited since 2021, and Universal Health Insurance covering 276,004 poor households and 1.4 million beneficiaries under government-funded schemes. Spine Care Upgrade: The Muhimbili Orthopaedic Institute plans a specialised Spine Injuries Rehabilitation Centre in Mbweni via a public-private partnership, alongside plans to expand outpatient services to ease congestion. El Niño Health & Disaster Planning: Government outlines a nationwide contingency plan to keep critical services running and protect communities from floods, landslides and disease outbreaks, with preparedness, prevention, response and recovery steps. Mental Health & Substance Use: Health officials urge youth to cut excessive alcohol and avoid drug abuse, linking substance dependence to violence and wider family harm. Eye Care Access: A free eye treatment camp in Korogwe reached 3,259 people, with 333 surgeries and thousands receiving medicines and reading glasses. Health Misinformation Violence: Police and communities are urged to address harmful social media rumours after “genital theft” accusations have led to mob attacks and deaths across parts of Africa, including Tanzania cases. Zanzibar-China Health Support: Zanzibar pledges continued cooperation with China as it thanks medical teams for schistosomiasis work and training, with more specialist support expected later in the year.