The government has rolled out a new online training programme under the One Health approach to boost the capacity of service providers in human, animal and environmental health, in a bid to improve national preparedness and response to health emergencies.
The initiative delivered through the Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) model was officially launched on July 15, 2025, by the Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office (Policy, Parliament and Coordination), Dr Jim Yonazi, at the ECHO Hub located within the Department of Research and Training at Muhimbili National Hospital in Dar es Salaam.
Speaking during the launch, Dr Yonazi said the training responds to the growing need for cross-sectoral collaboration in the face of recurring public health threats that affect both people and animals, and impact ecosystems.
“This training programme has been developed in collaboration with sector ministries and the USAID-funded Global Health Security project, implemented by CIHEB Tanzania. It is designed to strengthen the technical capacity of health professionals—spanning human, animal and environmental health—across all levels,” he said.
He urged professionals and leaders in all relevant sectors to make full use of the opportunity.
“Sessions will be facilitated by subject matter experts and will cover a wide range of topics, including epidemic response, zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance, pest management, and food safety. The aim is to build a well-equipped workforce capable of preventing and addressing complex public health challenges,” said Dr Yonazi.
The ECHO model allows knowledge sharing and mentoring through virtual sessions, enabling professionals in remote areas to learn from national and international experts without the need for travel.
The initiative is aligned with the government's One Health strategy, which promotes integrated action across sectors to prevent and respond to health threats at the human-animal-environment interface.
Brigadier General Hosea Ndagala, Director of Disaster Management in the Prime Minister’s Office, said the programme is a strategic move to strengthen national capacity in priority areas.
“These include zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), biological hazards, food safety, and non-communicable diseases. These areas continue to pose challenges, and this training aims to ensure that our professionals are equipped with up-to-date knowledge and tools,” he said.
The training is open to experts from various fields including health, livestock, fisheries, and environmental sectors.
Ms Suzanne Nchalla, who represented the Director of Health and Nutrition Services from the President’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG), said the training will be particularly impactful for frontline service providers.
“This programme is crucial in ensuring that primary healthcare workers understand and apply the One Health concept in their daily work,” she said.
“We are committed to working with the Prime Minister’s Office to ensure participation from the grassroots level.”she added
She also emphasized the need for council health leaders to take the programme seriously, noting that PO-RALG will oversee implementation and provide regular reminders to ensure full participation.
Meanwhile, representing the Chief Medical Officer, Dr Otilia Gowelle from the Ministry of Health said the government recognises the vital role of multisectoral collaboration in managing recurring outbreaks and public health threats.
“The Ministry is already mobilising health professionals to join the training, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, laboratory technicians and health officers. This training will strengthen their capacity and enhance readiness across health facilities,” she said.
She reiterated the Ministry’s full commitment to the initiative, describing it as a valuable tool for improving coordination and response to health risks.
“The Ministry of Health is a key partner and a beneficiary of this collaboration. We will continue to provide support to ensure the success of this important programme,” she added.
The One Health concept has gained momentum globally as countries work to address the interconnected nature of health threats particularly in the wake of pandemics, zoonotic disease outbreaks, and environmental challenges.