Tanzania insists it broadly educates the public on the Hepatitis threat

DODOMA: THE Tanzanian government has continued implementing a special program to educate residents of Kigoma Region about Hepatitis through various communication channels and community mobilization efforts.

This was stated today in Parliament by the Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Florence Samizi, while responding to a question from Naomy Dungan Mwaipopo (Special Seats), who inquired about the government’s plan to provide education to the people of Kigoma regarding the disease.

In her response, Dr Samizi said the government has been using radio and television programs, various publications including newspapers, as well as social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram to educate the public on ways to prevent Hepatitis.

 She added that this education is also provided through televisions located in patient waiting areas at health service facilities.

She explained that the implementation of this program in Kigoma Region involves educating communities on the importance of Hepatitis testing, prevention, and treatment, as well as encouraging citizens to get tested through community-level mobilizers.

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Dr Samizi said the government continues to build the capacity of health service providers to ensure they can deliver accurate information to communities. So far, a total of 102 health service providers in Kigoma have received training.

Furthermore, she noted that public education on the disease continues through media outlets, including both local and national radio stations, as well as live programs on Instagram, where Hepatitis is among the topics discussed.

In addition, the Ministry has distributed educational leaflets and billboards targeting various community groups, including youth, adults, pregnant women, religious leaders, journalists, community leaders, long-distance drivers, miners, fishermen, couples with differing responses, married couples, and health service providers.

Dr Samizi added that education on Hepatitis is also being provided through toll-free phone numbers 117 and 199, enabling citizens to access information and professional advice about the disease.