Luanda: Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan expressed her gratitude to Angolan Head of State Joo Louren§o for the decision to name a newly inaugurated General Burn Hospital in the Kilamba municipality after former Tanzanian President Julius Nyerere. The inauguration ceremony on Saturday marked a significant tribute to Nyerere, highlighting his contributions to Africa's liberation and the enduring friendship between Angola and Tanzania.
According to Angola Press News Agency, President Hassan spoke at the event, emphasizing the recognition of Julius Nyerere's legacy and the historic ties of solidarity between the two nations. She was accompanied by Nyerere's family members, including his widow, Maria Nyerere, a son, and grandchildren, underscoring the personal and national significance of the honor.
The Tanzanian President acknowledged the invitation extended by Joo Louren§o to Nyerere's family as a gesture of respect and appreciation for Nyerere's contributions. During the ceremony, she toured the hospital facilities and expressed her belief that the infrastructure was deserving of Nyerere's name due to the vital services it will provide.
In her remarks, President Hassan mentioned the broader legacy of African leaders in the liberation struggle, including Angola's first President, Ant³nio Agostinho Neto. She expressed satisfaction with the hospital's naming, aligning it with the shared history and aspirations of African unity and progress.
Health Cooperation
President Hassan also recognized the advancements in Angola's health sector under Joo Louren§o's leadership and proposed enhanced cooperation between Tanzania and Angola. She suggested an exchange of medical teams between the two countries to foster collaboration and share expertise in the health sector.
"We should send teams from Tanzania to visit this hospital, as well as Angolan teams to visit hospitals and other health centers in Tanzania," she emphasized. The proposal includes establishing partnerships between hospitals and universities in both countries to exchange knowledge and technologies.
Highlighting Tanzania's progress in treating cardiovascular diseases and other medical specialties, President Hassan suggested these capabilities could be shared to strengthen bilateral health cooperation. She noted that such exchanges would enhance both nations' health sovereignty and reduce reliance on external medical treatment.
Tanzania Seeks Angola's Support
During the same occasion, President Hassan sought Angola's support for Tanzania's leadership in maternal and child health initiatives across Africa. She requested the backing of President Joo Louren§o and First Lady Ana Dias Louren§o to bolster efforts in improving health indicators in this area.
"I would like to take this opportunity to ask President Joo Louren§o, as well as First Lady Ana Dias Louren§o, to support my leadership in this endeavor," she stated. The Julius Nyerere General Burn Hospital, specializing in burn treatment, is part of Angola's strategy to enhance the National Health Service's capabilities.
