THE World Health Organization (WHO) has donated equipment and supplies to strengthen infection prevention control (IPC) and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) in health facilities as well as preparedness and response against epidemics in Kigoma Region.

This has been implemented with funding from the UN Multi-Partner Trust Fund Office.

This is part of the United Nations Kigoma Joint Programme’s efforts to work collaboratively with regional and local government authorities, communities and other stakeholders in the region to bolster human health security in Kigoma.

Speaking at the handing-over ceremony on Thursday, Dr Jairos Hiliza, Public Health Officer at WHO, underscored the commitment of WHO to ensuring that the lives of the people in Kigoma Region are protected against health threats. He noted that the overall goal is not only to strengthen the health preparedness mechanism of the region but also to ensure that no one is left behind in the health for all agenda.

“WHO aims to foster a stronger health system and build resilience against health emergencies. Our unwavering support for the region remains resolute as we strive towards the achievement of universal health coverage for Tanzania.”

Kigoma Region is one of the regions in Tanzania bordered by neighbouring countries.

Nesphory Sungu, Kigoma Regional Health Officer, expressed gratitude for the equipment donated.

He stated: “Our health facility lacked some of these IPC/WASH essential equipment and supplies. I would like to thank WHO for continued support. This support will ultimately help us to improve people’s health and ensure the provision of safe services for both our healthcare providers and patients.”

For Dr Ibrahim Saleh, Manager for Public Health Emergency Operations Center (PHEOC) in Kigoma Region, the equipment especially for the emergency operation centre will kickstart the operationalization of the centre to serve the people of Kigoma Region.  

“We are happy to receive these items and equipment which shows great cooperation and collaboration with our stakeholders particularly WHO that has worked together to ensure the region is safe from disease as well as all health emergencies," he said.

The Kigoma Joint Programme cuts across multiple sectors to improve development and human security in Kigoma. The programme involved 17 UN agencies and was developed in cooperation with the regional authority based on the needs of the people living in Kigoma and the capacities of the UN in Tanzania.

WHO leads the health and nutrition theme of the programme, and contributes to implementing various projects in WASH, emergencies and health system strengthening.