In a significant public health milestone, the government of Tanzania, in partnership with Helen Keller International, has successfully eliminated trachoma in 64 local government authorities, reaching nearly 100,000 people with treatment and cataract surgeries.
Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Grace Magembe, announced the achievement on August 4, 2025, following a high-level meeting with the President of Helen Keller International, Ms. Sarah Bouchie, and her delegation at the Ministry of Health headquarters in Mtumba, Dodoma.
“Together, we’ve managed to provide essential eye health services both treatment for trachoma and life-changing cataract surgeries across underserved areas,” said Dr. Magembe.
“This is a strong testament to what strategic partnerships can accomplish when government systems are empowered and communities are prioritized.”he added
The collaboration, which targets neglected tropical diseases and other non-communicable conditions, also focuses on scaling up nutrition interventions, especially among children under five.
Dr. Magembe noted that vitamin A supplementation and nutrition education, particularly in regions such as Mara, are ongoing in partnership with Helen Keller International.
The Ministry and the organization are now exploring ways to expand surgical services and intensify training for local health workers to ensure long-term sustainability.
“We’ve agreed that future missions will also include knowledge transfer to our local specialists,” Dr. Magembe emphasized.
“That way, our people will continue receiving these services consistently, even after international experts leave. We’ve also discussed deepening collaboration on nutrition efforts in stunting-prone regions.”he added
Speaking at the meeting, Ms. Bouchie praised Tanzania’s leadership and commitment in controlling neglected diseases and improving health systems.
“Our success here is the result of a close partnership with the Government of Tanzania,” she said. “We remain committed to supporting efforts that advance nutrition, tackle neglected diseases, and reduce the burden of non-communicable illnesses.”
The initiative is part of Tanzania’s broader strategy to improve healthcare access and equity, particularly in rural and marginalized communities.
It underscores the importance of international cooperation in strengthening health systems and achieving national development goals.