Tanzania’s Samia and Angola President Lourenço Inaugurate Julius Nyerere Referral Hospital in Luanda

Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan and Angolan President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço have jointly inaugurated the President Julius Nyerere Referral Hospital (Hospital dos Queimados Presidente Julius Nyerere) in Luanda, marking another milestone in the long-standing ties between Tanzania and Angola.

The inauguration ceremony took place on Saturday, August 1, in the Kilamba district of Luanda, where the two Heads of State officially opened the hospital by cutting a ceremonial ribbon. Also present at the event was Maria Nyerere, the widow of Tanzania’s founding President, Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere.

The hospital has been named in honor of Julius Nyerere in recognition of his significant contribution to Africa’s liberation struggles, particularly his support for Southern African countries, including Angola, during their fight against colonial rule and apartheid.

During his presidency, Nyerere made Tanzania a base for several liberation movements, offering political support, military training and refuge to freedom fighters from across the region. Angola’s ruling MPLA movement was among those that benefited from Tanzania’s backing during its struggle for independence from Portugal.

Angolan authorities said naming the hospital after Nyerere reflects the country’s appreciation for his enduring legacy and the role he played in supporting Angola’s path to independence. The facility is expected to strengthen healthcare services in Luanda by providing specialized referral treatment for patients from across the country.

The inauguration also formed part of President Samia’s official visit to Angola, which has focused on expanding cooperation between the two countries in areas including healthcare, trade, investment and regional development.

Relations between Tanzania and Angola date back to the liberation era, when the two nations worked closely in the struggle against colonialism in Southern Africa. Both governments have repeatedly emphasized their commitment to preserving that historic partnership while exploring new opportunities for economic and social cooperation.