Kagera Region is finalising a One Health strategic plan aimed at strengthening the management of public health risks linked to the interaction between humans, animals and the environment.
Acting Regional Medical Officer, Mr Salum Kimbau, said the plan will improve coordination and implementation of the One Health approach, which brings together multiple sectors to address shared health challenges.
He was speaking in Muleba District while opening a five-day workshop that has convened experts from the health, livestock, environment, wildlife and agriculture sectors.
The meeting, running from April 27 to May 1, 2026, is tasked with drafting the regional plan and identifying resources to address key health threats.
Mr Kimbau said the initiative is expected to increase efficiency in dealing with cross-cutting challenges, particularly zoonotic diseases transmitted between animals and humans.
He noted that about 75 percent of infectious diseases are linked to the interaction between humans and animals, highlighting the need for a coordinated response.
“The plan will help strengthen collaboration across sectors and enable us to address these challenges more effectively, ensuring a safer community,” he said.
He added that the success of the plan will depend on strong participation from all relevant stakeholders.
Ms Valentina Sanga, Disaster Management Coordinator under the One Health section in the Prime Minister’s Office (Policy, Parliament, Coordination and Persons with Disabilities), said the initiative is being implemented in partnership with CIHEB Tanzania through the Global Health Security project.
She called for joint efforts to ensure the plan achieves its intended outcomes, noting that Kagera is among regions frequently affected by disease outbreaks and other health emergencies.
“The One Health approach helps us understand the close link between human, animal and environmental health. Strengthening this understanding is key to preventing and responding to disease outbreaks,” she said.
Ms Sanga said the plan will also support local authorities across the region to better prepare for and respond to health emergencies.
CIHEB Tanzania representative, Mr Mark Lwakatare, said the organisation will continue to work with the government to strengthen the implementation of One Health interventions.
He said the Global Health Security project aims to improve preparedness and response to health risks affecting people, animals and the environment.
“This partnership is important in building resilience and ensuring the country is better prepared to manage emerging health threats,” he said.
