MWE Correspondent
Tanzania has once again demonstrated its commitment to enhancing its health sector and reducing reliance on imported medicines, a move highlighted during the 75th Session of the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Committee for Africa in Lusaka, Zambia.
The meeting, which brought together health ministers and senior officials from across the continent, focused on strategies to strengthen local health systems and promote self-sufficiency in essential medicines. (WHO Africa)
Representing Tanzania at the forum, Dr. Seif Shekalaghe, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, attended on behalf of the Health Minister. Dr. Shekalaghe emphasized that the country’s active participation reflects a broader determination to build a resilient, self-reliant health sector capable of addressing current and future challenges.
“The forum is a key platform for regional collaboration, and Tanzania is committed to leveraging it to boost local pharmaceutical production and innovation,” Dr. Shekalaghe stated. The country is keen to foster partnerships that strengthen local manufacturing, research, and the development of healthcare solutions tailored to domestic needs.
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The WHO Regional Committee for Africa serves as a critical decision-making body, guiding health policy and strategy for the region. The recent session underscored the importance of regional cooperation in addressing health challenges, particularly the development of local pharmaceutical industries to reduce dependency on imports. (Pharmaceutical Industry)
Tanzania’s renewed focus on the health sector aligns with wider continental efforts to improve healthcare access, enhance economic growth through local production, and create job opportunities. By investing in domestic pharmaceutical capabilities, the country aims to ensure that essential medicines are readily available while fostering a sustainable healthcare ecosystem.
Experts attending the forum noted that strengthening local health systems is not just a national priority but a regional imperative, as countries across Africa strive to achieve greater self-sufficiency in healthcare. Tanzania’s approach, combining policy support, investment in innovation, and regional collaboration, positions it as a key player in shaping the future of healthcare delivery in East Africa. (Tanzania)
