This archive report was first published on 5 July 2020.
Tanzania Closes Down Over 70 COVID-19 Facilities Amid Declining Cases ¶
Published on July 5, 2020
Health Minister Ummy Mwalimu announced that only 11 COVID-19 treatment centres remained operational out of the initial 84 facilities in Tanzania.
According to Mwalimu, the low number of COVID-19 cases and new infections in recent months led to the closure of the majority of the treatment centres.
Despite the declining cases, Mwalimu urged Tanzanians to continue adhering to government directives to prevent the spread of the deadly virus.
The country's decision to close down the treatment centres has been met with controversy, with some accusing the government of downplaying the pandemic.
President John Magufuli had previously announced that Tanzania had won the battle against coronavirus, citing prayers and timely God intervention.
However, the United States had warned its citizens of the high risk of contracting COVID-19 in Dar es Salaam, with some hospitals reportedly overwhelmed by patients.
Despite the warnings, the Tanzanian government has been easing restrictions, reopening schools and allowing sporting activities to resume.
