In order to guarantee that healthcare data is handled, safeguarded and used responsibly throughout its lifecycle, a framework of policies, procedures and practices known as health data governance, will be strengthened and standardised throughout the continent by the Africa Centre for Disease Control (Africa CDC).

The Africa CDC declared that it will take the lead in creating a Continental Health Data Governance Framework, which will be presented to Member States for approval during the AU Summit in February 2026.

In her welcoming remarks, Dr Martha Terefe, Deputy Chief of Staff, Africa CDC, stated, “Such a framework would establish an agreement between Member States regarding optimal legislation and regulation for the effective and equitable governance of health data and build continental alignment and collaboration around a harmonised African position on health data governance that supports cross-border data flows, with the necessary protections in place.”

“Governance is the throne, but data is king,” stated Namibia’s Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr. Esperance Luvindao.

There was never a greater pressing need for Dr. Luvindao. Treating data as a valuable asset rather than letting it turn into a burden is essential in the current era of digitalisation and artificial intelligence. Decision-making, illness outbreak prediction and policy creation should all be guided by health data. However, we run the risk of losing control over this priceless resource in the absence of trustworthy, moral and well-coordinated government.

“Health information is potent. It can close equity gaps, assist real-time decision-making, enhance health outcomes and fortify health systems when properly managed. According to Dr. Terefe, it can facilitate what is known as precision public health, which is the capacity to customise interventions based on timely, localised, and genuine data.

The Framework will draw on current norms and standards, such as the equality and rights-based principles outlined in the widely accepted Health Data Governance Principles and be guided by the AU Data Policy Framework as well as current best practices and techniques used by nations.

At the request of Member States, Africa CDC has also promised to promote the establishment or improvement of national health data governance laws and regulations by offering Member States normative direction and technical assistance to build local capability.

Judith Nguimfack, Principal Digital Delivery Specialist, Africa CDC, who moderated the session, stated, “The commitment reflects the collective resolve of the continental agency to strengthen the governance, protection, and responsible use of health data as a cornerstone for equitable, resilient, and people-centered health systems.”

Amidst the rapidly changing governance landscape in the age of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, Africa CDC is signalling a sea change in the continent’s strategy for digital and health transformation. In order to support evidence-based policymaking, protect data sovereignty, improve public health outcomes, spur innovation, streamline the sector and protect the rights and confidence of African residents, it establishes health data as a strategic asset.

A unified continental framework will encourage the sharing of best practices and experiences throughout the continent, create a shared understanding and consensus regarding key legislative provisions, support legal coherence across jurisdictions, build trust, make cross-border data sharing easier and encourage the growth and expansion of innovations across nations.

The Africa CDC’s pledge marks a significant turning point in our journey. “Transform Health is dedicated to supporting these efforts towards more robust health data governance that protects rights, fortifies systems, and unlocks the potential of data for health for everyone in the digital age,” stated Mathilde Forslund, Executive Director, Transform Health, one of the Flagship co-chairs.

To improve STEM learning environments at 13 model secondary schools in Dodoma and Simiyu, KOICA is collaborating closely with the President’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG) and the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (MoEST). The initiative, which has a USD 10 million investment, intends to raise the standard of science and ICT education, boost participation, especially among girls and develop instructors’ and students’ digital skills.

The Government of Tanzania Health Operations and Management Information System (GoTHOMIS) is being expanded throughout the eight districts of the Dodoma Region with assistance from KOICA. The project’s main goal is to digitise primary healthcare facilities, which provide services to most Tanzanians. In order to improve patient care and system efficiency, it involves installing ICT infrastructure, enhancing the skills of healthcare professionals and sharing data in real time.

Together, these programs demonstrate KOICA’s dedication to empowering communities in Tanzania’s most important public sectors via digital innovation and inclusive, sustainable development.

This initiative’s Project Action Officer, Song Jeonghoo, sees it as more than just infrastructure—it’s personal. He said, “I’ve always wanted to help bring about significant change.” “Working directly with Tanzanian communities and supporting students who deserve better opportunities in science and technology was made possible by this project.” His love of cross-cultural cooperation and sustainable development led him to Tanzania, where he is currently observing the results of his labour firsthand.

According to Jeonghoo, “these labs give students crucial access to real-world, hands-on learning.” “Educators can now present more engaging and dynamic lessons, incorporating real-world science into repetition techniques.” Communities have already shown excitement and school administrators have hailed the effort as a game-changer, even if full implementation is still proceeding.

KOICA’s strategy places a strong emphasis on gender inclusiveness. In order to address the gender gap in STEM areas, the project includes gender-responsive interventions such as mentorship programs with female role models, STEM clubs and science competitions that encourage equitable participation. Jeonghoo underlined that encouraging girls to study science is a priority rather than an afterthought. “All girls should envision themselves behind a computer, in a lab coat, or spearheading innovation.”

The reaction from the community has been very positive. The idea that these chances can change the future of girls in rural Tanzania is becoming more and more popular among parents, educators and students. Even though the project is still in its early stages, young students are already demonstrating obvious enthusiasm.

KOICA is investing in people in addition to infrastructure. In order to strengthen national policy, senior Tanzanian education officials have received advanced STEM training in Korea. Additionally, a multi-phase training program is being developed to provide teachers with digital tools, gender-sensitive teaching strategies and real-world scientific applications.

According to Jeonghoo, “STEM is about solving problems, improving lives and building national capacity; it’s not just about equations or computers.” In his ideal future, Tanzanian students—particularly female students—will view STEM as an approachable route to achievement and creativity rather than as a discipline reserved for the privileged.

Tanzania’s scientific and technological future appears brighter with KOICA’s unwavering support—one lab, one instructor and one student at a time.

In addition to providing Tanzania’s youth with digital skills through revolutionary investments in STEM education, KOICA is updating the country’s healthcare system to guarantee that digital innovation enhances daily life at the local level.

Working on the GoTHOMIS expansion project has been a very meaningful experience for Field Manager Eunson. “One of the most direct ways to improve lives is through healthcare,” he stated. “After learning about Tanzania’s government’s digital health initiatives, I was confident that KOICA could help bring about long-lasting change, particularly in primary healthcare, where more than 65% of people receive care.”

Unlock Growth in the Heart of East Africa: Tanzania’s Booming Healthcare Market Awaits Exporters!

Are you seeking a dynamic and rapidly expanding market for your medical and healthcare products and equipment? Look no further than Tanzania, a nation poised for significant growth in its healthcare sector, presenting unparalleled opportunities for international exporters like you.

With a burgeoning population of over 60 million and a government committed to improving healthcare access and quality, Tanzania is quickly becoming a premier destination for businesses in the medical and healthcare industry.

Why Tanzania is Your Next Export Frontier:

• Growing Demand: Tanzania’s healthcare market, valued at approximately $600 million in 2017 and projected to reach $900 million by 2025, is driven by an increasing disease burden, a rising population, and growing awareness of health conditions. There’s a significant unmet demand for pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and diagnostic tools.
• Government Focus & Investment: The Tanzanian government is actively promoting the development of its pharmaceutical and medical device sector, with initiatives aimed at strengthening local manufacturing capacity and reducing reliance on imports. They have set a five-year target to produce 50% of hospital drugs and medical equipment locally. This commitment, coupled with increasing public and private sector investment, creates a fertile ground for market entry.
• Improving Healthcare Infrastructure: Tanzania has made substantial strides in enhancing healthcare delivery, including expanding access to quality medicines and medical devices, even in rural areas. There’s a particular demand for laboratory, surgical, radiology equipment, and diagnostic therapies.
• Digital Health Growth: The “Tanzania Connected Healthcare Market” is projected to grow from $26.54 million in 2022 to $207.37 million by 2030, at a CAGR of 29.3%. This surge is fueled by increased adoption of mobile technology, private sector investment, and government support for e-health initiatives such as the Tanzania Digital Health Strategy. This opens doors for mHealth services and devices.
• Strategic Location: As a member of the East African Community (EAC) and AfCFTA, Tanzania offers regional trade opportunities, making it a strategic hub for wider market penetration in East Africa.

Key Opportunities for Exporters:

• Pharmaceuticals: While local production is growing, Tanzania still heavily relies on foreign pharmaceutical imports, particularly generic drugs due to low per capita spending. This offers significant opportunities for generic drug manufacturers.
• Medical Devices & Equipment: There’s a high demand for a wide range of medical devices, including surgical instruments, diagnostic equipment, radiology equipment, and laboratory supplies. The expansion of chronic diseases like diabetes and cancer is driving the need for advanced diagnostic procedures.
• Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medicines: Self-medication is prevalent, making the OTC medicine market an attractive prospect.
• Public and Donor-Funded Tenders: The government issues tenders for pharmaceuticals and medical equipment, and local producers complying with international quality standards can also participate in tenders issued by the donor community.

Navigating the Regulatory Landscape:

The Tanzania Medicines and Medical Devices Authority (TMDA) is the key regulatory body. Exporters must register their premises and products with the TMDA to ensure compliance with quality, safety, and effectiveness standards. Important aspects include:

• Product Registration: Medical devices are classified (Class A, B, C, D) with varying registration timelines (e.g., Class A: 90 days, Class B, C, D: 240 days).
• Import Permits: Importers and exporters must register their premises with the TMDA before applying for permits. Applications should be lodged online, and processing typically takes 7 days.
• Local Authorized Representative: Foreign manufacturers are required to appoint a local authorized representative.
• Documentation: All applications and supporting documents must be in Kiswahili or English.
• Post-Market Surveillance: Manufacturers are required to submit biennial PMS reports.

Don’t miss out on the immense potential Tanzania offers! Its growing healthcare needs, coupled with a supportive government and an expanding digital health landscape, make it an ideal market for your medical and healthcare exports.

For further insights and to explore specific opportunities tailored to your products, we encourage you to connect with trade promotion organizations and consult with local experts in the Tanzanian market.

The leaders of China and Kenya say their relationship is going “to a new level.”

The announcement coincides with Kenyan President William Ruto’s first official visit to Beijing, despite the fact that he had previously made two separate journeys to China.

Both China and Kenya have been looking for tighter partnerships elsewhere after trade tensions with the United States, so the timing of the visit could not be more important.

The 10% taxes that US President Donald Trump placed on Kenyan exports last month have sped up the country’s eastward migration. China has made significant infrastructure investments in Nairobi in recent years and hopes to keep up this trend; plans for a road and a railway project are among the items on the table in talks with Beijing.

China, on the other hand, views a stronger partnership with Nairobi as an attractive gateway point to East Africa and beyond.

According to reports, Xi and Ruto signed 20 cooperation agreements during their meeting in a variety of fields, including technology, the economy and security.

According to reports, President Ruto also stated interest in joining the BRICS nations, which include China.

China offered 500 scholarships and announced plans to start 20 yearly exchange programs in the future, strengthening Kenya-China cooperation in the health sector.

The partnership is essential to forming the nation’s future health leadership, according to a statement released by Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Health Aden Duale during a meeting with a group headed by Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Guo Haiyan.

Duale pointed out that the two parties had also spoken about utilising Chinese technology to create regional centres for the manufacture of pharmaceuticals and vaccines.

According to Duale, the $500 million joint project aims to enhance Kenya’s supply chains, lessen reliance on imports, generate jobs and establish the East African country as a pioneer in the production of health products.

Additionally, he suggested creating a Kenya-China Health Cooperation Taskforce to coordinate objectives, accelerate the signing of memorandums of understanding and track advancements.

Duale praised China’s continuous assistance through technology companies, which have been significant in teaching thousands of health professionals and outfitting rural health facilities.

Amref Health Africa- Tanzania (Amref) has formally begun a revolutionary project to improve epilepsy care and support for individuals with neurological illnesses in partnership with the Tanzanian government through the Ministry of Health. Targeting the districts of Bahi and Chamwino as pilot districts for scalable, community-based epilepsy care, the new initiative, named “Enhancing Epilepsy Care in Africa (EECA),” was formally introduced in Dodoma.

The Ministry of Health (MOH), the President’s Office, Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG), the Tanzania Epilepsy Association (TEA), the Parents Organisation for Children with Epilepsy in Tanzania (POCET), the National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR), the University of Antwerp, Belgium and Amref Health Africa Tanzania are all partners in the three-year project, which will run from January 1, 2025, to December 30, 2027. The BAND Foundation and the UCB Innovation for Health Equity Fund are the project’s funding sources.

People with epilepsy, parents, carers and families of those with epilepsy, as well as community leaders, medical professionals and policymakers, are the project’s target audience.

Amref Tanzania’s programs on Strengthening Health Systems (HSS) and Empowering Communities to deliver sustainable, people-centered healthcare are directly aligned with this project. The project intends to enhance health outcomes and social inclusion for PWE and their families through early diagnosis, better treatment, training for health workers and grassroots anti-stigma initiatives.

According to Dr. Aisa Muya, Director of Programs at Amref Tanzania, “the EECA project is a crucial step in furthering Amref’s mission to strengthen health systems and empower communities. We are fostering long-term community resilience and ownership in addition to enhancing medical access by integrating epilepsy care into Tanzania’s basic healthcare system. In order to provide more accessible and equitable healthcare, this model matches our larger HSS strategy of investing in data, human resources, service delivery and community leadership.

Acting Director of Curative Services, Ministry of Health, Dr. Winifrida Kidima, who presided over the launch, underlined the project’s national importance.

The EECA project will be implemented within Tanzania’s primary healthcare system, guaranteeing institutional ownership, policy alignment and long-term sustainability. Its anti-stigma initiatives, community mobilisation and training of medical professionals, community health workers (CHWs), carers and local influencers will be key components.

The project is expected to lead to stronger government focus on epilepsy and other brain conditions, better community awareness and less stigma and improved ways to prevent, diagnose and treat epilepsy. It also aims to improve how health data is collected and used to support planning and funding, helping to reduce the gap in epilepsy treatment.

Despite impacting millions of people globally, epilepsy frequently goes unrecognised because of stigma and misconceptions, particularly in areas with few resources. In Tanzania, people with epilepsy frequently encounter obstacles in their social lives, careers, education and access to healthcare. The EECA initiative seeks to alter this narrative by putting individuals and communities at the centre of its approach, providing better care along with a revitalised sense of opportunity, inclusion and dignity.

Medical aid needs to change to accommodate the requirements of contemporary South Africans and they are honoured to be at the forefront of this change.

On October 1, a daring new medical assistance program will be introduced. With the strength of Sanlam and Fedhealth’s 89-year history of innovation, it is built to provide exactly what have been requesting: greater affordability, choice and value.

After hearing what South Africa wants from a program, they’re enhancing what already exists, making adjustments where needed and developing a medical assistance experience that genuinely prioritises patients.

Earlier this year, Fedhealth was appointed as Sanlam’s sole open medical scheme provider, combining the experience of a financial giant with a legacy of innovation.

This action bolsters the Sanlam group’s entire financial services value proposition, which aims to deliver a comprehensive health solution to both current and prospective customers. The collaboration furthers Sanlam’s goal of providing a more comprehensive, cost-effective, and sustainable healthcare, insurance and investment offering.

This deal would help Fedhealth achieve its goal of increasing its market share in South Africa’s corporate market, which could result in a significant influx of new corporate members through Sanlam’s existing clientele.

The new Scheme will continue to function as a separate organisation, with a Board of Trustees made up of Scheme members.

A project was started by the Tanzanian government and the World Health Organisation (WHO) to train communities in first-aid procedures for victims of traffic accidents.

Improving Post-Crash Care in Tanzania, a three-year project worth 485,350 USD, will implement and assess the effects of six WHO emergency care toolkit elements in pre-hospital and hospital settings along Tanzania’s most active highways that connect the country’s north and south.

Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Tanzania’s National Road Safety Council and the WHO collaborated on the initiative, which was made possible by funding from the UN Road Safety Fund.

The initiative aims to enhance post-crash care by increasing ambulance services’ capacity and educating layperson first responders, according to Hendry Sawe, head of the MUHAS’ Emergency Medicine Department.

According to Sawe, these trained responders will be prepared to offer emergency care at crash scenes, guaranteeing the victims’ safe transfer to medical facilities with improved emergency care capabilities.

The project is important, according to Galbert Fedjo, WHO’s health systems coordinator, who also noted that many people were killed and disabled in traffic accidents in sub-Saharan Africa, especially in Tanzania.

He claimed that at 16 fatalities per 100,000, Tanzania’s road traffic death rate is still frighteningly high.

With prompt emergency care, many of these fatalities and impairments may have been avoided. But Tanzania’s emergency care system has serious flaws, such as no established emergency medical services, no central dispatch mechanism and a lack of organised coordination,” Fedjo stated.

In order to improve healthcare services in the area and give the local medical infrastructure a much-needed boost, the Kericho County Government has set aside Sh158 million for the development of the Sosiot Level Four Hospital in Belgut Sub-County.

Governor Dr. Eric Mutai emphasised during the groundbreaking ceremony in Sosiot, Kericho County, that the three-story, state-of-the-art facility will significantly improve medical care in the area. He noted that the new hospital will house essential departments like Casualty, Outpatient Services and specialised clinics in Ophthalmology, Dentistry, ENT and Dermatology, greatly improving medical care for resident patients.

In order to improve security and accessibility, Governor Mutai further disclosed that the project will incorporate essential infrastructure improvements like perimeter fencing, cabro paving on the hospital grounds and a contemporary entrance gate.

He underlined that the construction of the hospital is an essential step in addressing the community’s expanding healthcare demands and guaranteeing that residents can receive services at a reasonable cost.

“This new facility complements the ongoing construction of a Mother and Child Unit, which is valued at sh57 million and was developed in collaboration with the Safaricom Foundation to provide critical paediatric and maternal care,” Dr. Mutai stated.

Other important hospital departments, such as a new theatre, radiology unit, laboratory and male and female wards, have made progress, the governor stated, and plans are in place to assign staff to these facilities so they may be fully operational.

“These efforts will provide much-needed healthcare services to the people of Sosiot and surrounding areas while relieving pressure on the Kericho County Referral Hospital,” Dr. Mutai said.

In Waldai Ward, Belgut Sub-County, Dr Mutai simultaneously put into service a Sh200 million water expansion project that includes building a 150,000-cubic-meter water storage tank, a 21-kilometer house-to-house distribution network and extending the Kericho-Kimugu water system with a 10-kilometer main pipeline from Kapsoit to Taplotin.

The Governor also disclosed that the County Government had allocated an additional Sh10 million under the Floods and Climate Change Adaptation (FLOCCA) initiative to improve the last-mile distribution network, guaranteeing that even the most isolated residences have access to water.

The Jamii Salama – Healthier Communities Project (JSP) marks the beginning of a revolutionary chapter in Tabora’s healthcare scene. In order to combat malaria and enhance maternal healthcare in the area, the Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete Foundation (JMKF) and SC Johnson (SCJ) have partnered to launch this ground-breaking project. The project provides mobile outreach services to the public directly, preventing malaria and providing critical prenatal care where it is most needed, with a particular focus on Sikonge and Uyui districts.

The JSP aims to improve pregnancy outcomes for pregnant women in these underprivileged regions by filling important healthcare gaps. It is anticipated that the initiative will provide essential services that will save lives and strengthen communities, benefiting about 800 expectant mothers and 2,000 elementary school students.

Mobile malaria clinics, furnished with portable diagnostic instruments, ultrasonography equipment and necessary medical supplies, are the project’s central component. These mobile units, which are manned by community health volunteers and qualified healthcare professionals, are intended to reach isolated, rural areas with inadequate access to healthcare. Two new dispensaries will also be built as part of the project in the Sikonge and Uyui district councils with the goal of bolstering the area’s healthcare system and providing long-term assistance.

Earlie this month, the JSP was formally introduced in the State House in Chamwino, Dodoma. Her Excellency Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, the president of the United Republic of Tanzania and a fervent supporter of healthcare reform, graced the occasion. Her attendance demonstrated the project’s importance to the nation’s overall health policy.

The settlor and chairman of JMKF, former president Dr. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, was also present and reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing maternal health through programs like JSP Dr. Fisk Johnson III, Chairman and CEO of SC Johnson & Sons and a fervent supporter of the eradication of malaria, who also highlighted the contribution of his company to the project’s success.

Attendees included important government representatives such as Dr. Godwin Mollel, the Deputy Minister for Health and Hon. Mohamed Mchengerwa, Minister of State in the President’s Office (PORALG). Particularly emphasised as one of the initiative’s main beneficiaries was the Tabora region, represented by Hon. Paul Matiko Chacha, Tabora’s Regional Commissioner.

The project’s long-term viability depends on its emphasis on developing the area’s healthcare infrastructure. An estimated 36,000 individuals will be served by the two new dispensaries that will be built in high-burden malaria areas. These dispensaries will offer a range of healthcare services, including as incinerators for medical waste, reproductive and pediatric health clinics, and outpatient care. In order to provide healthcare services around-the-clock, the dispensaries will also house medical personnel.
By giving communities in Tabora access to necessary healthcare services and laying the groundwork for a healthy future, the Jamii Salama Project seeks to enhance their quality of life.