Medical Internship in Tanzania
Step into one of East Africa’s busiest hospitals and gain hands-on clinical exposure while experiencing the cultural vibrancy of Tanzania.
At a glance:
- Tanzania
- 2–12 weeks (minimum 2 weeks)
- Accommodation & Meals Included
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Overview:
This Medical Internship takes place at Massana Hospital, a modern multi-specialty facility in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s largest city. Designed for students and graduates in medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and allied health sciences, the program offers a unique opportunity to apply classroom learning in real-world healthcare settings.
Interns observe procedures, assist with patient care, and contribute to public health initiatives under the mentorship of senior doctors and nurses. Depending on your level of training, you may focus on observation, assist with procedures and documentation, or even support minor surgeries and emergency interventions under supervision.
Rotations across General Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Emergency Care, Radiology, and Pharmacy provide broad-based exposure to global healthcare delivery in a resource-conscious setting.
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Internship Details:
Host Facility: Massana Hospital, Dar es Salaam
Departments: General Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Emergency Care, Radiology, Pharmacy
Duration: 2–12 weeks
Start Dates: Every Monday, year-round (2025 & 2026)
Working Hours: 8 hours/day, Monday–Friday
Supervision: Senior medical staff with structured mentorship, daily check-ins, and evaluations
Capacity: Up to 30 interns across departments
Minimum Age: 18
Language: English (basic Swahili helpful but not required)
Required Documents: CV, passport copy, academic transcripts, CRB check, cover letter, vaccination record, recommendation letter
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Programme Highlights:
- Gain supervised clinical exposure across multiple specialties
- Shadow doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals
- Participate in ward rounds, patient assessments, and diagnostic observations
- Support vaccination drives and public health outreach
- Attend workshops, CME sessions, and feedback reviews
- Build resilience, adaptability, and intercultural communication skills
- Explore Dar es Salaam and the nearby Zanzibar archipelago during your free time
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What’s Included:
- Internship placement at Massana Hospital
- Rotations across departments with structured supervision
- Daily mentorship, feedback sessions, and evaluations
- Shared accommodation in Dar es Salaam
- Meals: 3 meals daily on weekdays, 2 meals daily on weekends
- Airport pickup on arrival
- Orientation program and 24/7 in-country support
- Certificate of completion
Not included: Flights, visa, insurance, personal medical equipment (scrubs, stethoscope, gloves), personal expenses.
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A Day in the Life:
- Morning: Breakfast followed by hospital ward rounds or clinical observations
- Daytime: Patient consultations, diagnostic procedures, or outreach programs
- Afternoon: Workshops, documentation, or assisting in clinics
- Evening: Dinner with fellow interns and time for reflection, study, or exploring the city
Schedules vary by department and hospital needs, ensuring interns experience a wide range of activities.
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Professional Development:
This internship develops both clinical and transferable career skills:
- Critical Thinking & Problem Solving: Apply knowledge in a resource-conscious healthcare system
- Clinical Confidence: Build comfort in professional hospital settings
- Collaboration: Work within diverse medical teams and cross-cultural environments
- Adaptability & Resilience: Learn to thrive in dynamic and sometimes unpredictable healthcare contexts
- Global Health Awareness: Understand healthcare delivery challenges and innovations in East Africa
Career Pathways Supported
This internship is ideal for students and graduates preparing for careers such as:
- Physician/Doctor
- Nurse or Midwife
- Pharmacist
- Radiographer or Lab Technician
- Public Health Specialist
- Emergency Care Practitioner
- Global Health Researcher
- NGO or Humanitarian Health Worker
Life in Tanzania
Dar es Salaam is Tanzania’s largest and most diverse city, offering a blend of coastal culture, busy markets, and a thriving medical hub. In your free time, explore historical sites, enjoy local cuisine, or travel to Zanzibar for world-famous beaches. This placement combines professional growth with cultural immersion in one of Africa’s most dynamic regions.
Frequently asked questions
Can I choose which department I work in?
Yes, your placement depends on your background and interests, though rotations across departments are encouraged to broaden your learning.
Will I be allowed to perform medical procedures?
Your role depends on your training level. Beginners focus on observation and patient care support, while advanced interns may assist with minor procedures under supervision.
Is Swahili required to participate?
No, English is widely used in the hospital. Basic Swahili is helpful for patient interaction but not mandatory.
What equipment should I bring?
You should bring scrubs or a white coat, closed medical shoes, a stethoscope, gloves and personal reference materials.
How competitive are placements at Massana Hospital?
Spots are limited to maintain quality supervision and training, so we recommend applying early to secure your place.
Ready to apply?
This is your opportunity to develop clinical skills, build global health awareness, and gain professional experience that will set you apart in your medical career.