Mtwara Zone

Mtwara Zone
The Medical Stores Department Mtwara Zone was established in 1994, as a vital gateway for healthcare supply and distribution in Southern Tanzania. Strategically positioned to serve the regions of Mtwara and Lindi, as well as Tunduru District in the Ruvuma Region. The zone plays a central role in ensuring that essential medicines and medical supplies reach all communities across southern Tanzania.

Service Area and Coverage
According to the 2022 Tanzania Population and Housing Census, MSD Mtwara Zone serves a combined population of 3,241,029 people, guaranteeing access to quality and affordable health products. This total includes populations from the following regions and districts: Mtwara Region – 1,634,947 people, Lindi Region – 1,194,028 people, and Tunduru District (Ruvuma Region) with 412,054 people.

The Zone currently serves fifteen (15) councils and a total of 842 health facilities, ranging from primary to tertiary levels, including:

1. Tertiary and Secondary Institutions 1 Zonal Referal Hospital, and 2 Regional Referral hospitals.

2. Primary Health Facilities, including 15 District Hospitals under the President’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG), 2 Designated district hospital, 57 health centers, 569 dispensaries, 

3. Faith-Based and Other Institutions- 21 faith-based hospitals, and 50 other hospitals 

Through this extensive network, MSD Mtwara Zone ensures last-mile delivery of health commodities to even the most remote areas, strengthening the overall public healthcare system.

Storage and Operational Capacity
The Medical Stores Mtwara Zone operates a modern 5,758-square-meter warehouse, equipped to handle, store, and distribute a wide range of health commodities under strict compliance with Good Storage and Distribution Practices (GSDP).
To support timely and efficient deliveries, the zone manages a fleet of 17 distribution vehicles of varying capacities, ensuring seamless logistics across all service regions.

Behind its operational excellence is a dedicated team of 41 professionals, including logistics specialists, pharmacists, accountants, sales representatives, customer service officers, bio-technicians, and drivers. Their expertise and commitment enable MSD Mtwara Zone to maintain high service standards, ensuring the availability, quality, and accessibility of health commodities throughout its service area.

Commitment to Excellence
With its strategic location, modern infrastructure, and skilled workforce, the MSD Mtwara Zone continues to play a pivotal role in enhancing healthcare delivery in Southern parts of Tanzania. The zone remains committed to MSD’s overarching vision of becoming a Centre of Excellence for Health Commodities Supply Chain in Africa.