MUHAS, UNICEF launch public health emergency communication course

DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA has taken a significant step towards strengthening its capacity for risk communication and community engagement during public health emergencies following the launch of a new accredited course by the Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS) in collaboration with UNICEF Tanzania.

The course, launched in Dar es Salaam over the weekend through the School of Public Health and Social Sciences’ Department of Behavioural Sciences, aims to build a skilled workforce capable of delivering timely, accurate and trusted information while promoting meaningful community participation during health emergencies.

The programme integrates Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) modules and is designed for health professionals, communicators, community workers and emergency responders.

Speaking during the launch, MUHAS Deputy ViceChancellor, Professor Emmanuel Balandya, said the university remains committed to producing graduates equipped to address emerging and complex public health challenges, including epidemics, climaterelated emergencies and the growing threat of misinformation.

“Effective risk communication and community engagement have become critical pillars of public health emergency preparedness and response, particularly in the wake of recent disease outbreaks,” he said.

Prof Balandya noted that the new course would help strengthen the country’s capacity to respond to health emergencies by equipping professionals with the skills needed to communicate effectively and engage communities. UNICEF Deputy Representative, Ms Patricia Safi Lombo, commended MUHAS for its leadership in advancing public health education, stressing that trust and effective communication save lives during emergencies.

“Trust is the foundation of every effective public health response. This course is an important investment in building a skilled workforce that can communicate clearly, listen to communities and respond in ways that protect lives,” she said.

Ms Lombo added that the initiative forms part of UNICEF’s broader support for Tanzania’s public health emergency preparedness efforts.

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“We remain committed to working with the Government and partners to strengthen systems, build capacities at all levels and help ensure the country is ready for emerging public health threats,” she said.

Meanwhile, Head of the Department of Behavioural Sciences at MUHAS, Prof Emmy Metta, praised the longstanding partnership between UNICEF and the university in strengthening social and behaviour change systems in the country.

According to organisers, the course draws lessons from recent global and regional health emergencies, including Covid-19, cholera and Marburg virus outbreaks. It is also aligned with the International Health Regulations (IHR 2005) and Tanzania’s national health emergency preparedness frameworks.

Enrolment details for the first cohort are expected to be announced through MUHAS official communication channels and social media platforms.