Want to quit drinking? Tanzania’s hospital urges citizens to step forward

The Mirembe National Mental Health Institute has urged Tanzanians wishing to voluntarily quit alcohol consumption, including those not yet severely addicted, to step forward and receive treatment at the facility. This appeal was issued on Saturday, September 26, 2026, by the institute’s acting executive director, Dr Innocent Mwombeki, two days after the arrival of a consignment of Naltrexone, a medication used to reduce alcohol dependence. Dr Mwombeki made the remarks while receiving the drugs, which were imported through the Medical Stores Department (MSD) and handed over by MSD central zone manager, Ms Mwanashee Juma. He stated that the medicines will be dispensed through the Itega Addiction Treatment Centre, where recipients will also receive psychological counselling and guidance on proper usage. "There are people who can drink and stop anytime without suffering harm, but there are those who wish to quit but cannot. These are the ones we are helping, and many of them are young people who we believe will have their lives saved through this drug," said Dr Mwombeki. He noted that treatment will not rely on medication alone; noting that beneficiaries will also receive counselling regarding behaviour and environment to enhance effectiveness. Ms Juma stated that MSD has imported 110,000 doses of Naltrexone to serve over 600 initial beneficiaries, ahead of an evaluation to guide subsequent shipments. She instructed the institute to collaborate with other centres equipped with addiction specialists to broaden the medicine's reach. The acting pharmacist for the institute, Ms Glory Msanjila, explained that Naltrexone works by curbing alcohol cravings and diminishing the euphoric pleasure previously associated with drinking. She added that initial side effects may occur, advising users to report any severe reactions that hinder daily activities.