Tanzania stresses sustainable financing mechanisms for public health emergencies
NEW YORK: THE Vice President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr. Philip Mpango, has said Tanzania emphasizes the importance of sustainable financing mechanisms to ensure resilience in responding to public health emergencies in Africa.
The Vice President said this while participating in the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Heads of State and Government Committee Meeting held on the sidelines of the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, United States.
He said Tanzania is determined to increase domestic resource mobilization, strengthen innovative financing solutions, as well as support regional initiatives that reduce dependence on foreign aid, thereby ensuring that Africa’s health priorities are addressed by African governments.
In addition, the Vice President said domestic production of diagnostic equipment, treatment, and other essential medical products is essential for self-reliance in the health sector.
“Tanzania encourages investment in local industries, a common regulatory authority across the continent, and technology transfer partnerships to strengthen Africa’s capacity to respond to current and future health challenges.
He said recent experiences with infectious disease outbreaks, including Marburg and other infectious pathogens, have highlighted the need for strong preparedness and response systems.
ALSO READ: FNS parades an initiative to create Tanzania’s future aviators
“Tanzania supports the development of infectious disease treatment units, rapid deployment of emergency teams, and investment in human and health infrastructure.
He also stressed the importance of strengthening all pillars of public health emergencies, including disease surveillance, laboratories, infection control, equipment, and coordination for timely and effective response to outbreaks.
He called for enhanced cooperation among African Union Member States, regional economic communities, and the Africa Centers for Disease Control to have a unified approach to responding to health emergencies.
He said collaboration on research, policy, and joint capacity building plans will strengthen the collective ability to prevent, detect, and respond to emerging health threats.
The Committee meeting aimed to discuss issues related to the Africa Center for Disease Control (Africa CDC), under the theme ‘Ensuring Health Independence in Africa: Political Leadership for Sustainable Financing of the Health Sector, Domestic Production and Preparedness for disease outbreaks.
