The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with UNICEF, has organized a capacity-building seminar for journalists and social media stakeholders aimed at strengthening public communication and ensuring accurate information sharing in efforts to enhance preparedness against Ebola disease.
The seminar, held on June 30, 2026, in Dar es Salaam, brings together media professionals, communication experts, and digital influencers to improve understanding of the current Ebola preparedness situation in Tanzania and to reinforce coordination between the government and the media in public health communication.
According to health officials, the training is part of ongoing national efforts to ensure that the country remains alert and well-prepared to respond effectively in the event of any Ebola outbreak.
Participants are being equipped with skills to responsibly report health-related information and to counter misinformation that could undermine public health interventions.
The program focuses on improving communication strategies related to Ebola prevention, detection, and response, with particular attention given to points of entry and exit in the country.
These include airports, border posts, and other high-risk areas where surveillance and screening measures are being strengthened.
A key component of the seminar is Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE), which emphasizes the importance of engaging communities in understanding disease risks and adopting preventive behaviours.
Experts highlighted that effective community involvement plays a critical role in reducing panic, combating rumors, and ensuring timely reporting of suspected cases.
The training also explores the role of social, cultural, and behavioural research in shaping public health messaging.
Participants are being encouraged to consider local beliefs and practices when designing communication approaches, in order to make health messages more relatable and effective across different communities.
In addition, the seminar marks the introduction of an official Ebola communication package that will be used nationwide to guide public awareness campaigns.
The package is designed to support consistent messaging across various communication platforms, including radio, television, print media, and digital channels.
Officials from the Ministry of Health stressed that collaboration with the media remains essential in safeguarding public health.
They noted that journalists and digital content creators play a key role in shaping public perception and ensuring that communities receive timely, accurate, and reliable information.
UNICEF reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Tanzania in strengthening health communication systems and community preparedness initiatives.
The organization emphasized that early awareness and correct information are critical in preventing the spread of infectious diseases and protecting vulnerable populations.
The seminar is part of broader efforts by the government and development partners to strengthen national preparedness systems, improve emergency response coordination, and ensure that the public remains informed and engaged in health security matters.
Participants are expected to apply the knowledge gained to improve reporting standards and contribute to national efforts aimed at preventing and controlling Ebola and other public health threats.
