SUA mobile lab boosts outbreak response

MOROGORO: SOKOINE University of Agriculture’s (SUA) mobile laboratory has strengthened the country’s response to infectious disease outbreaks by enabling rapid investigation and diagnosis through genetic testing technology.

Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (Policy, Parliament and People with Disabilities), Professor Palamagamba Kabudi, made the remarks after visiting the SUA pavilion during the climax of the Eastern Zone Nane Nane International Agricultural Exhibition in Morogoro.

Prof Kabudi said the innovation has made a significant contribution to combating disease outbreaks such as Marburg and Covid-19 which demonstrates the capacity of Tanzanian scientists to develop solutions to health challenges.

“This is one of Tanzania’s unique innovations that is putting the country on the international map and showing that our experts can provide solutions to challenges facing many countries,” he said.

He also commended SUA for research that contributes to global health and security, particularly the use of trained rats to detect tuberculosis (TB) and landmines.

Prof Kabudi said the technology has helped save lives by identifying sputum samples containing TB bacteria and detecting landmines in areas that were previously unsafe for communities.

“What we are seeing here at SUA is a source of pride for Tanzania and a major contribution by Tanzania to the world,” he said.

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The minister noted that although Tanzania enjoys peace and faces limited landmine threats, the expertise developed in the country has supported nations affected by war, including Cambodia, Mozambique and Angola.

He said such achievements deserve wider publicity so that the international community can better appreciate Tanzania’s contribution to health, safety and post-conflict recovery efforts.

Explaining the technology, SUA Assistant ICT Officer Mr Mtachila Mtachila said the mobile laboratory played an important role during outbreaks such as Marburg disease and Covid-19 by facilitating sample testing and timely provision of scientific information.

He said the laboratory is among the innovations being showcased by SUA at this year’s exhibition as part of the university’s efforts to apply science, technology and research in addressing health and community development challenges.