On 17 April 2026, the Africa Leaders Malaria Alliance (ALMA), in collaboration with the Ifakara Health Institute (IHI), hosted a curated media tour at the Bagamoyo research facilities in Tanzania, with the Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health,  Tumainiel Macha, serving as Guest of Honour.

The engagement brought together representatives from the Ministry of Health (MoH), the National Malaria Control Programme (NMCP), the Vice President’s Office (VPO ) – Division of Environment , the National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR - Mwanza), and the African Conversations Initiatives (ACI), alongside a select group of journalists invited for an exclusive “show-and-tell” experience on cutting-edge malaria research.

A central focus of the tour was gene drive technology, an emerging scientific approach with the potential to reduce malaria transmission by modifying mosquito populations. Discussions throughout the day highlighted recent scientific advancements presented by the Principal Investigator of the Transmission Zero project, Dr Dickson Lweitoijera, offering context on the progress and direction of the research.

The session aimed to deepen public understanding of gene drive technology—how it works, its safety considerations, and its possible role in strengthening malaria control and elimination efforts. It also underscored Africa’s growing leadership in scientific innovation, with Tanzania standing out as a key example of locally driven research contributing to regional and global health solutions.

Journalists were taken on a guided tour of ongoing laboratory work at IHI, including studies involving genetically modified Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes. The visit provided first-hand insight into laboratory procedures, containment systems, and safety protocols in place to ensure responsible research practices. It also created space for open dialogue, allowing participants to engage with researchers on frequently asked questions and common misconceptions surrounding gene drive technology and its integration into broader malaria control strategies.

Through this initiative, ALMA and IHI sought to foster more informed public dialogue on emerging malaria innovations, strengthen understanding of Tanzania’s leadership in responsible science, and reinforce the importance of clear, accurate, and transparent communication in building public trust in scientific advancement.