The government has cut the rate of epilepsy linked to onchocerciasis from 60 percent to 40 percent over the past six years, thanks to ongoing health programs and community support.
Speaking at a research evaluation workshop on February 3, 2026, in Dar es Salaam, Dr. Seif Shekalaghe, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, said Mahenge District in Morogoro has long struggled with this condition.
He noted that scientific research and the distribution of medicines in communities have helped reduce infection rates by more than 22 percent in the area.
For more than 25 years, the government has been providing Ivermectin to entire communities to prevent onchocerciasis, a disease linked to certain types of epilepsy.
Dr. Shekalaghe emphasized the need to continue these programs while exploring additional ways to eliminate the disease.
He called on local leaders, religious figures, and community stakeholders to work closely with the government, saying the health sector alone cannot fight the disease effectively.
“Social and religious leaders are trusted in their communities, which makes it easier for people to participate fully in health programs,” he explained.
Dr. Shekalaghe also thanked residents of Mahenge and Ulanga for their cooperation during the research and urged them to continue following health advice and taking medications as instructed to help eliminate onchocerciasis and related epilepsy.
