WE CAN PREVENT 80% OF DEATHS IN THE COUNTRY BY CHANGING LIFESTYLE – DR. BITEKO.



📌 Emphasizes the importance of physical exercise to prevent non-communicable diseases

📌 Commends NBC Dodoma Marathon for supporting the Government in the fight against cervical cancer and sponsoring health specialists

📌 Applauds the MTU NI AFYA campaign encouraging Tanzanians to exercise regularly

📌 NBC Dodoma Marathon enables treatment for 4,800 women with cervical cancer; training for 100 midwives; and contributes to ward construction

By the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Energy

The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Energy, Hon. Dr. Doto Biteko, has said that 80% of deaths in the country can be prevented if Tanzanians adopt a healthy lifestyle, including regular physical exercise.

He made these remarks on July 27, 2025, in Dodoma while representing the Prime Minister, Hon. Kassim Majaliwa, at the climax of the 6th season of the NBC Dodoma Marathon 2025, aimed at raising funds to improve maternal and child health.

“According to the 2022 World Health Organization report, regular exercise such as running can reduce the risk of heart disease by over 35%. Physical activity also helps prevent other non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, cancer, and many more,” said Dr. Biteko.

In Tanzania, Dr. Biteko noted that 33% of adults are overweight and 28% have high blood pressure, conditions contributing to over 40% of premature deaths. However, 80% of these deaths can be avoided by adopting a healthier lifestyle.

Dr. Biteko commended NBC through the NBC Dodoma Marathon for supporting the Government in various areas, especially in the health sector. In 2025, the marathon focuses on continuing the fight against cervical cancer in collaboration with the Ocean Road Cancer Institute.

Additionally, the initiative will sponsor midwifery training through the Benjamin Mkapa Foundation to reduce maternal and infant mortality during childbirth and provide scholarships for nurses specializing in supporting children with autism, in partnership with AMREF Africa.

Since its inception in 2020, NBC Dodoma Marathon has been a symbol of unity, patriotism, and a solution to various societal challenges, including health issues.

Dr. Biteko applauded the marathon’s growth, stating that in 2024 it had 8,000 participants, and this year attracted over 12,000 runners—a 50% increase.

In terms of fundraising, NBC Dodoma Marathon collected TZS 300 million in 2024 and TZS 700 million in 2025, marking a 133.33% increase in revenue.

He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to collaborating with stakeholders like NBC, who continue to leverage sports to improve public health and address social challenges.

Dr. Biteko urged the Ministry of Health, Local Government Authorities, civil society, the private sector, and all citizens to make running and exercise part of daily life to prevent lifestyle-related health complications.

“I would appreciate it if every institution could dedicate at least one day a month for group exercise. This will improve our health and strengthen our nation,” emphasized Dr. Biteko.

He also commended the Ministry of Health for the MTU NI AFYA campaign, which encourages Tanzanians to exercise for at least 30 minutes daily, eat a balanced diet, undergo regular health check-ups, and avoid risky behaviors.

Meanwhile, Hon. Prof. Palamagamba Kabudi, Minister for Information, Culture, Arts, and Sports, stated that the NBC Dodoma Marathon has become a major attraction for athletes due to its excellent organization. He pledged continued support from his ministry in promoting such initiatives and ensuring sports facilities are developed in cities like Arusha, Dodoma, and Dar es Salaam to boost youth participation in sports and fitness.

Earlier, NBC Managing Director Theobald Sabi said the marathon represents a landmark private-sector investment in health and other sectors. Over five years, the event has raised more than TZS 1 billion, significantly contributing to the health sector.

Achievements include providing education and facilitating cervical cancer screening for over 200,000 women, funding treatment for 4,800 women diagnosed with cancer at Ocean Road Hospital, sponsoring 100 midwives at the Morogoro Midwifery College, and contributing to the construction of a special women’s ward at Muhimbili National Hospital.

The sixth edition of NBC Dodoma Marathon, themed “Kata Wese, Okoa Maisha” (Cut Weight, Save Lives), attracted 12,000 runners, raised TZS 700 million for maternal and child health, aimed at early cervical cancer screening for 10,000 women, sponsored 100 midwives, and introduced a new scholarship program for 100 nurses specializing in autism care.

The marathon featured both local and international athletes, with total cash prizes amounting to TZS 80 million, and donated 10 motorcycles to the Dodoma Regional Police Force.


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