Tanzania has deployed 3,561 newly trained Community Health Workers (WAJA), marking a major step in efforts to bring healthcare closer to citizens and reduce the burden of preventable diseases.
The initiative, implemented by the Ministry of Health and the President’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG) in partnership with health sector stakeholders, is part of the government’s broader plan to achieve universal health coverage by 2030.
In Lindi, 222 graduates received their certificates during a brief ceremony, representing the first group of health workers trained across 12 regions.
The graduates have undergone six months of intensive training—three months in classrooms and another three in field practice within their communities.
Lindi Regional Administrative Secretary, Ms. Zuwena Omary Jiri, said the program signals the government’s renewed commitment to preventive healthcare.
“This program was first introduced in the 1970s but struggled with coordination. The new phase has been strengthened to ensure every household benefits from timely and reliable health services. By 2030, we want no citizen left behind in accessing healthcare,” she said.
The government has provided the health workers with uniforms, bicycles, medical kits, and digital tablets.
The tablets are linked to the Health Management Information System (MTUHA), enabling real-time reporting and better planning for health interventions.
Government Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Grace Magembe, noted that WAJA are elected by their own communities to build trust and accountability.
Each neighborhood or village selects a man and a woman, who are then trained to deliver health education, monitor illnesses, and provide essential services such as blood pressure and sugar level checks.
“These workers will be the first point of contact for families, especially in rural and hard-to-reach areas. Their role is to ease pressure on hospitals by addressing health challenges early and strengthening disease prevention at the grassroots,” said Dr. Magembe.
For many citizens, particularly those in villages far from health centers, WAJA are expected to make a tangible difference—helping mothers with maternal care, offering advice on nutrition, and supporting patients with chronic conditions.
Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Mr. Dickson Maluchila thanked the government and partners for the training and equipment.
“We are ready to serve our communities and ensure people get timely care close to their homes,” he said.
Launched in 2024 by Vice President Dr. Philip Mpango, the WAJA program has been positioned as a cornerstone of Tanzania’s health reforms.
By placing prevention at the heart of service delivery, the government aims to cut down on the rising cost of treatment while improving the quality of life for millions of citizens.
