Tanzania implements One Health Strategy to combat drug-resistant infections

TANZANIA—Tanzania is tightening its grip on antimicrobial resistance, the growing problem locally referred to as UVIDA, by mobilizing government ministries and institutions to speed up a coordinated national response.

The push comes as officials recognize that drug-resistant infections pose an increasingly serious threat to the country’s public health.

During the 32nd National Coordinating Committee on AMR meeting held recently in Dar es Salaam, Dr. Grace Magembe, the committee’s chairperson and the country’s Chief Medical Officer, outlined the government’s commitment to implementing a comprehensive One Health approach.

This strategy recognizes that human health, animal health, and environmental health are interconnected and requires action across all three sectors.

Reviewing progress across key areas

The committee reviewed reports from five technical teams working on different aspects of antimicrobial resistance control.

These groups focus on raising public awareness, improving laboratory surveillance and diagnostic capabilities, preventing infections in healthcare settings, promoting responsible antibiotic use, and tracking progress toward targets.

Together, they form the backbone of Tanzania’s AMR response.

Dr. Magembe stressed that every ministry and institution must commit dedicated funding to tackle antimicrobial resistance effectively.

She also emphasized the critical role of public education, noting that many Tanzanians lack awareness about how to properly use medicines and when antibiotics are truly necessary.

Better understanding among the general population could significantly reduce unnecessary antibiotic use—a major driver of drug resistance.

Building support across government and communities

Daudi Msasi, the meeting’s secretary and chief government pharmacist, reinforced that antimicrobial resistance remains a critical global challenge.

Tanzania cannot afford to lag behind in addressing it, he warned, as the consequences affect everything from surgery success rates to the treatment of common infections.

The meeting participants recognized that strengthening medicine management systems is essential to prevent misuse and overuse of antibiotics.

Communities must understand the dangers of sharing antibiotics, using leftover doses, or purchasing medicines without prescriptions—practices that accelerate the development of drug-resistant bacteria.

Moving forward with coordination

Officials agreed that success depends on enhanced collaboration at every level of government and society.

By coordinating efforts between health, agriculture, and environmental sectors, and ensuring timely implementation of planned measures, Tanzania aims to protect public health and fortify its healthcare system for the future.

The government has signaled that this is not a short-term initiative but a sustained commitment to combating one of the world’s most pressing health threats.