About Us
Our History
Columbia Africa, IST Clinic, is formerly known as IST Clinic. It was founded by Belia Klaassen MD and Ype Smit MD in1997. Both doctors are specialized in family medicine in The Netherlands, with a postgraduate training in tropical medicine. Prior to moving to Dar es Salaam in 1997, they had been working in mission hospitals in rural Tanzania since 1988
Dr Belia and Dr Ype built and fully equipped a new clinic in 1998 in close cooperation with the International School of Tanganyika. From the onset, the clinic has provided 24- hour medical care to residents of Dar es Salaam and throughout Tanzania. There are daytime clinics by appointment or walk in, and out-of-hours services at night and over the weekend. Known for its patient-centered care and continuity of service, IST Clinic has built a reputation for personalized treatment, medical excellence, and community trust. With its team of doctors, nurses, laboratory, and pharmacy staff, IST Clinic has served generations of families and continues to be a trusted health partner in Tanzania In 2025, Columbia Africa Healthcare Limited acquired IST Clinic, adding Tanzania to its existing network of clinics in Nairobi, Kenya.
Columbia Africa Healthcare Limited is a privately held healthcare group headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya. It is funded by Columbia Pacific Management Inc., a Seattle-based company with over 40 years of experience in developing healthcare and senior living facilities globally. Columbia Africa delivers evidence-based medicine through modern, efficient, and caring environments designed to meet the growing healthcare needs of Africa’s urban populations.
Our lab technologists
Our lab technologists Makolo and Alex (not in the photo) are known for their gentle and professional approach
Our pharmacists
Our pharmacist Steven and pharmacy assistant Emma will inform you about your medication
Our administration team
In our accounts department, you will be assisted by Salma, Sameer and Sayra. Our clinic manager is Abbas Manji (on right side).
Our vision
We have a passion for making people better.
Our Mission
To deliver the best clinical outcomes in the most effective, efficient, and caring environment.
Become member of Columbia Africa, IST Clinic today!
Advantages of membership include (but are not limited to) a 24-hour standby emergency service, reduced consultation fees, consultation by appointment, house visits, and preferential treatment in regards to appointments. In addition, you will receive monthly invoices and statements for services rendered by the clinic. This means that you do not need to pay at the clinic at the time of the consultation.