As Tanzania accelerates efforts to build resilient and equitable health systems, Amref Health Africa in Tanzania has emerged as a key enabler, showcasing transformative, community-powered innovations and data-driven solutions at the 12th Tanzania Health Summit (THS) held from October 1–3 in Dar es Salaam.
This year’s summit, themed “Harnessing Data Utilisation and Technologies to Accelerate Universal Health,” convened government leaders, health experts, researchers, and civil society to explore strategies for advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
“We came to show what’s possible when communities, innovation, and evidence come together,” said Dr Aisa Muya, Director of Programmes at Amref Tanzania. “From strengthening surveillance to restoring dignity to women, our work is rooted in trust, especially at the last mile, where health challenges hit hardest.”
Amref Health Africa presented a suite of abstracts and best practices aligned with its 2023–2030 Strategic priorities: UHC, public health security, climate-resilient systems, digital transformation, and addressing demographic shifts. Highlights included:
- Improved HIV Outcomes through Innovation: In Simiyu, a hub-and-spoke model for CD4 testing connected rural clinics to central labs via motorcycle courier and SMS, drastically improving early detection of Advanced HIV Disease (AHD).
- Restoring Dignity to Women with Fistula: A holistic care model in Mwanza and Geita, offering surgery, psychosocial support, and economic empowerment intervention that enables survivors reclaim their health and reintegrate into their communities.
- “Mzigo Kijiweni” PrEP Model in Zanzibar: By shifting PrEP delivery to community-preferred locations, uptake doubled, showcasing how convenience and trust can redefine HIV prevention.
- Psychosocial Support in Fistula Recovery: In regions where obstetric fistula devastates women’s health and confidence, Amref’s integrated approach improved mental health, social reintegration, and self-worth.
- Nutrition Days in Pangani: Quarterly Village Health and Nutrition Days brought supplements, education, and child growth monitoring to thousands, demonstrating that community engagement drives uptake.
- COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake in Tanga and Simiyu: Leveraging real-time data and local leadership, Amref achieved over 99% vaccine coverage, thereby setting a benchmark for future outbreak responses.
A Strategic Partner for Tanzania’s Health Future
Amref’s presence at THS 2025 was not merely participatory but transformative. Each abstract shared reflected the organisation’s deep-rooted commitment to co-creating sustainable health solutions with communities and governments.
“Health is not just the absence of disease; it’s about restoring dignity. That’s why we champion holistic care, data, and trusted partnerships,” added Dr Muya.
Amref Tanzania’s work spans eight programmatic areas across three portfolios; Women and Youth, Health Systems Strengthening, and Social Determinants of Health which are all anchored in community-led, people-centered primary healthcare, and driven by a vision of a healthier, more equitable future.
As Tanzania works to advance the UHC agenda, and digital transformation goals, Amref remains a committed partner to the Government of Tanzania and local communities. Its evidence-backed approaches are designed for scale, resilience, and sustainability.
“When data informs action, and communities lead the way, lasting change becomes inevitable,” said Dr Muya. “Together, we’re building a future where health is accessible, equitable, and owned by the people it serves. At the heart of every intervention is our belief in community power and trusted partnerships. That’s how we build resilience.”