ARUSHA: PRIME Minister Kassim Majaliwa has directed research and higher learning institutions to prioritise scientific studies focused on addressing interconnected health challenges that impact human, animal and environmental health.
He stressed that government departments and institutions should actively incorporate research findings into the execution of national programmes and strategies.
Speaking on Monday at the National One Health Conference held at the Arusha International Conference Centre (AICC) in Arusha, Mr Majaliwa emphasised the importance of comprehensive research in fields such as zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance, non-communicable diseases, climate change and food security.
He encouraged institutions involved in community, animal and environmental health to allocate funds and integrate health-focused initiatives into their annual plans.
“Sectoral ministries and local government authorities should establish action plans and procedures for implementing the One Health approach, following established guidelines that clearly outline each stakeholder’s role,” the Prime Minister remarked.
He also urged institutions to convene regularly to assess the progress of collaborative health initiatives and promptly address arising issues.
The Prime Minister emphasised the value of continued research within One Health, a concept aimed at achieving optimal health outcomes by recognising the interconnectedness of people, animals and their environments.
He encouraged institutions to stay proactive in addressing public health threats through a coordinated approach that involves multiple sectors and the community.
Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office (Policy, Parliamentary Affairs and Coordination), Ummy Nderiananga, reiterated the government’s commitment to prioritising One Health, noting that it spans across sectors and requires collaborative efforts from various stakeholders.
The Prime Minister’s Office, she said, continues to champion this approach to secure public health at a national level.
Meanwhile, Minister for Livestock and Fisheries, Mr Abdalah Ulega, announced that the Ministry of Agriculture has allocated 28bn/- to launch a countrywide livestock vaccination campaign.
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The initiative aims to safeguard both livestock and public health by controlling diseases that may spread between animals and humans.
Additionally, Deputy Minister for Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG), Dr Festo Dugange, highlighted the importance of the One Health initiative in sustaining and improving community health.
He reaffirmed his ministry’s commitment to collaborate with other government bodies to prevent and manage zoonotic diseases that pose risks to human populations.
The conference underscored the role of One Health in achieving a more resilient health system, where scientific research and integrated efforts contribute to a healthier and safer Tanzania.
He noted that his ministry will continue to collaborate with other ministries to prevent and combat the challenges of zoonotic diseases spreading from animals to human beings.
