Kyerwa District Commissioner Zaituni Msofe visits the TADEPA pavilion, highlighting the organization’s efforts in combating HIV/AIDS. Photo: Courtesy
By Mutayoba Arbogast
For over a quarter of a century, the Tanzania Development and AIDS Prevention Association (TADEPA) has been a beacon of hope in the relentless battle against HIV/AIDS. From the rolling hills of Kagera to communities across the nation, TADEPA has worked tirelessly to transform lives, equipping people with the knowledge, tools, and support to prevent and combat the epidemic.
Known for its grassroots approach, the organization has become a trusted ally in bridging gaps in healthcare access, fostering awareness, and empowering vulnerable populations.
Celebrated for its impactful programs and unwavering commitment, TADEPA stands as a testament to the power of collective action in the fight against one of the world's most pressing health challenges.
The recognition came during the Kagera Regional observance of World AIDS Day on December 1, 2024, held in Kyerwa District. Regional Medical Officer (RMO), Dr. Samweli Laizer, lauded TADEPA for its commitment and achievements in the face of considerable challenges.
He emphasized that while the government plays a critical role in addressing inequalities fueling HIV, meaningful progress requires collaboration with stakeholders such as TADEPA and MDH.
During his address, Dr. Laizer provided an overview of the HIV/AIDS situation in the Kagera Region. A total of 77,577 people had been tested for HIV, with 76,497 individuals currently enrolled in Care and Treatment Center (CTC) programs.
Among them, 75,043 had shown significant progress in suppressing the virus through Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), ensuring they could lead healthier lives. He highlighted the importance of these programs in providing health education and adherence counseling to empower individuals living with HIV.
Despite these successes, Dr. Laizer expressed concern about the reluctance of some people to visit healthcare facilities for testing, describing this hesitancy as a major obstacle to eradicating the epidemic. He urged residents to take advantage of the free testing services available, emphasizing that early detection is crucial for effective management and prevention of HIV.
The platform of leaders and guests. On the left stands the dynamic CEO of TADEPA, Dr. James Barongo.Photo: Courtesy
In a speech delivered on behalf of Kagera Regional Commissioner Fatma Mwassa, Kyerwa District Commissioner Zaituni Msofe stressed the importance of adopting effective strategies to fight HIV. She called for honesty among partners and encouraged regular testing, reminding attendees that HIV status cannot be determined by appearance alone.
During the event, a poignant testimony was shared by Selestine Mbatiina, the Chairperson of People Living with HIV in Kyerwa District. Mbatiina recounted how he had initially sold all his family’s possessions, including their farmland, to consult fortune tellers in a futile attempt to understand and cure his deteriorating health.
After eventually testing for HIV, he received proper treatment and support, allowing him to regain his health and rebuild his life. Today, he proudly manages his farmland, raises livestock, and operates a small shop in his village, serving as a powerful example of the transformative impact of knowing one’s status and accessing appropriate care.
TADEPA played a central role in the celebrations, showcasing its extensive efforts in educating communities about HIV prevention and supporting them in achieving better health outcomes and economic stability. The organization’s pavilion provided an opportunity for attendees to learn about its programs, which address various issues such as gender inequality, domestic violence, and family financial management—factors that often contribute to the spread of HIV.
TADEPA Program Officer Abimeleck Richard and his team engaged with visitors, answering questions and providing insights into their initiatives. They highlighted how addressing root causes, such as conflicts within households and economic disparities, can significantly reduce the risk of HIV transmission and improve overall community well-being.
Dr. James Barongo, CEO of TADEPA, expressed pride in the organization’s recognition by the government. He underscored TADEPA’s commitment to supporting Tanzania’s children, particularly those under eight years of age, by ensuring access to essential services from pregnancy through early childhood.
This approach, he noted, lays a solid foundation for the next generation, enabling children to achieve their full potential and grow into patriotic citizens.
As a key stakeholder in the National Multisectoral Early Childhood Development Program, TADEPA has been instrumental in safeguarding families from the long-term impacts of HIV. Dr. Barongo reiterated that the organization’s work aligns with the broader goal of creating a healthier and more prosperous future for Tanzania.
National statistics underscored the scale of the HIV epidemic. According to the Tanzania HIV Impact Survey 2022-2023, approximately 60% of new HIV cases occurred among adults, although the prevalence rate had decreased from 5.6% in 2017 to 4.9% in 2022.
Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that 39.9 million people were living with HIV in the same period, with 630,000 deaths attributed to the virus and related diseases.
Some attendees suggested that Tanzania should consider implementing a policy requiring all individuals over 18 years of age to carry a certificate confirming they had been tested for HIV, akin to a national identity or voter registration card. Proponents of the idea argued that it could enhance accountability and encourage widespread testing, though such a proposal would likely spark significant debate.
The 2024 national commemoration of World AIDS Day, held at Majimaji Grounds in Ruvuma Region from November 24 to December 1, reflected Tanzania’s commitment to the global fight against HIV/AIDS. Coordinated by the Prime Minister’s Office through the Tanzania Commission for AIDS (TACAIDS), the event provided a platform to assess progress, address challenges, and renew efforts to end the epidemic by 2030.
In her remarks during a press briefing on November 14, Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office for Policy, Parliamentary Affairs, and Coordination, Ummy Nderiananga, emphasized the event’s importance. She called on regional leaders to mobilize communities and ensure the successful observance of World AIDS Day nationwide.
Representing the Ministry of Health, Acting Program Head Dr. Riziki Kisonga detailed the services offered during the week-long commemoration. These included HIV testing, counseling, and education on proper ARV use. Additional services addressed related health concerns, such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and hepatitis.
Health Minister Jenista Mhagama acknowledged the support of international partners, including the Global Fund and the United States government, in strengthening Tanzania’s healthcare infrastructure. She highlighted the Ministry’s efforts to combat HIV, including scaling up drug resistance testing and expanding access to ARVs through specialized laboratories at facilities such as Temeke, Bugando, and Benjamin Mkapa Hospitals.
The observance reinforced Tanzania’s unwavering vision of achieving zero new HIV infections and eliminating stigma by 2030. Authorities pledged to keep citizens informed with updated statistics and strategies, emphasizing that collective action and persistent dedication are essential to overcoming the challenges posed by HIV/AIDS.
The initiatives spearheaded by organizations like TADEPA continue to empower communities, transforming lives and building a healthier future.
As personal testimonies of resilience and triumph echoed during the World AIDS Day celebrations, they highlighted the indomitable spirit of Tanzanians in the fight against the epidemic.
These narratives, combined with ongoing collaborative efforts among government bodies, private organizations, and international partners, paint a promising picture of a nation rising against adversity.
This year’s commemoration served as a rallying cry for every Tanzanian to stand together, driven by the belief that change is possible.
By shattering barriers of stigma, fostering education, and ensuring access to care, Tanzania is not just fighting an epidemic but rewriting its future—a future where HIV no longer claims lives and hope flourishes.