TZ’s ALMA deal to eliminate malaria by 2030

DODOMA: TANZANIA has signed a Host Country Agreement with the African Leaders Malaria Alliance (ALMA), reaffirming its commitment to eliminate malaria by the year 2030.

The renewed agreement, subject to renewal every three years, was signed in Dodoma on Saturday by the Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, on behalf of the government and ALMA Executive Secretary, Ms Joy Phumaphi, who represented the alliance.

Speaking after the signing, Amb Kombo said the agreement marked a milestone in strengthening cooperation between Tanzania and ALMA and pledged the government’s full support for the organisation as it continues operating from its headquarters in Tanzania.

“This agreement reflects President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s commitment to the fight against malaria. Tanzania will continue to offer all necessary facilities and infrastructure for ALMA to operate efficiently,” he said.

He lauded ALMA for spearheading strategic efforts to fight malaria across the continent, noting that the alliance has supported significant progress in resource mobilisation, policy implementation and national malaria scorecards.

“Tanzania, under the Ministry of Health, has made tremendous progress in fighting malaria, thanks to joint efforts with partners such as ALMA,” he said.

Ms Phumaphi, ALMA Executive Secretary, thanked Tanzania for its leadership under President Samia, which made the agreement possible.

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“This agreement continues the relationship that began in 2009, when ALMA was established under the leadership of former President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, then Chairperson of the African Union,” she recalled.

Ms Phumaphi said ALMA would continue supporting African countries through digital tools to track progress, identify gaps and mobilise resources.

“What the Heads of State want is to support countries to eliminate malaria. ALMA works with eight countries, including Tanzania, to liaise with the Global Fund and other partners to support procurement and strategic planning,” she noted.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr Seif Shekalaghe, outlined key achievements stemming from cooperation between the government and ALMA.

“The signing of this Host Agreement means ALMA’s headquarters will now be based in Tanzania. This places us closer to the secretariat and enables us to benefit directly from strategic planning,” he said.

Dr Shekalaghe added that the relocation of ALMA’s secretariat would not only bring foreign exchange and employment opportunities, but also boost Tanzania’s standing in global health matters.

“The presence of ALMA here will ensure the fight against malaria remains a national priority until the disease is fully eradicated,” he said.