Canadian support enables Tanzania to register 11m birth certificates

DAR ES SALAAM: CANADIAN Minister for International Development, Randeep Sarai, has emphasized that registering birth certificates for children under the age of five is a fundamental right that must be implemented promptly to safeguard children’s rights and ensure their future is not compromised.

Minister Sarai made these remarks during a visit to Makuburi Health Centre in Dar es Salaam, where he inspected the progress and implementation of health service programs funded by the government of Canada through the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

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Among the key programs is the registration of birth certificates for children under five, which has achieved significant success. Another major initiative is the provision of Vitamin A supplements to children aged six months to five years.

Sarai highlighted that a birth certificate serves as the foundation of a child’s identity. It grants a child a legal name, citizenship, and access to essential social services such as healthcare, education, and protection.

Support from Canada, through the international organization Nutrition International, enabled Tanzania to exceed its target of registering seven million children in 2013. A total of 11 million children were successfully registered.

Board Member of Nutrition International and former Tanzanian President, Dr. Jakaya Kikwete, expressed gratitude to the Government of Canada for its contribution to the development of the health sector, particularly through the provision of Vitamin A supplements. He noted that these efforts have played a crucial role in building a healthier nation, laying the groundwork for sustainable development.