Government Launches Free Hydrocele Treatment Campaign in Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam – Nearly 500 Dar es Salaam residents are set to receive free hydrocele screening and surgical treatment as part of a government initiative to eliminate neglected tropical diseases across the country.

The month-long campaign, which launched on January 5, has already made significant progress. Hundreds of residents have been screened, with 127 individuals diagnosed with hydrocele. Of these, 27 patients have successfully undergone corrective surgery, with many more expected to receive treatment as the programme expands across the city.

Kinondoni District Commissioner Saad Mtambule announced that medical camps have been established at Kilakara Health Centre in Temeke Municipal Council and Kinondoni Health Centre in Kinondoni Municipal Council.

"I want to appeal to residents from all areas to come for screening and check if they have any health challenges so they can receive proper treatment from specialists," he said, urging citizens to come forward and access medical care.

He emphasized the importance of early detection, stating: "Early detection saves lives and reduces long-term health and economic burdens on families. Residents diagnosed with hydrocele should not shy away from treatment; this condition is fully treatable and stigma must never stand in the way of recovery. Health is an investment every citizen must protect."

Nationwide Progress

National Lymphatic Filariasis Focal Person at the Ministry of Health, Dr Gulinja Antony, noted Tanzania’s significant strides in combating neglected tropical diseases. Since 2008, more than 12,660 hydrocele patients have received corrective surgery nationwide.

The Dar es Salaam initiative runs alongside similar interventions in five other high-risk regions: Morogoro, Lindi, Coast Region, Mtwara, and Mbeya.

"This campaign is about restoring dignity and productivity. Successful surgery allows patients to regain their health and fully re-engage in social and economic life," Dr Antony said.

Comprehensive Care Package

National NTDs Coordinator at the Prime Minister’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (PMO-RALG), Dr Irene Haule, outlined the process for participants. All patients undergo medical screening first, and those diagnosed are scheduled for surgery.

"The government covers all associated costs, including hospital care, medication, meals, accommodation and post-operative follow-ups. Each patient will also receive three free check-ups to ensure full recovery," she confirmed.

Dar es Salaam Regional NTD Coordinator Alex Mkamba attributed the decline in hydrocele cases to growing public awareness. In 2025 alone, 1,084 patients in the region underwent hydrocele surgery.

"The programme’s benefits go beyond health. Patients regain confidence, rebuild relationships and return to productive economic activities, contributing to their families and communities," Mkamba said.