Ifakara Health Institute is taking part in the 33rd Annual Joint Scientific Conference of the National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR), taking place from 9–11 June 2026 in Arusha, Tanzania. The conference brings together researchers, healthcare professionals, policymakers, development partners, and other stakeholders to share scientific findings and discuss solutions to some of the country’s most pressing health challenges.

Held under the theme “Universal Health Coverage: Building a Resilient Health System to achieve Tanzania’s Development Vision 2050,” the conference provides a platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and evidence-based discussions that contribute to national and global health priorities.

At the conference, several Ifakara scientists and staff are participating through scientific presentations, poster exhibitions, panel discussions, and networking sessions. Their participation highlights Ifakara’s continued commitment to generating high-quality research evidence and supporting the translation of research into policy and practice to improve public health in Tanzania and beyond.

The conference also offers an important opportunity for researchers and institutions to showcase innovations, strengthen partnerships, and explore collaborative approaches to addressing emerging health and development challenges.

Advancing universal health coverage and health system resilience

As part of the conference programme, Ifakara Health Institute’s Chief Executive Director, Dr. Honorati Masanja, participated in a high-level panel discussion on Universal Health Coverage: Building a Resilient Health System to achieve Tanzania’s Development Vision 2050.

During the session, Dr. Masanja joined fellow experts and policymakers in discussing strategies for strengthening health systems, expanding access to quality healthcare services, and enhancing resilience to future health challenges. The discussion underscored the importance of evidence-based policymaking, sustainable health financing, innovation, and partnerships in advancing Tanzania’s journey toward Universal Health Coverage and the goals outlined in the country’s Development Vision 2050.

Through its participation, Ifakara Health Institute continues to contribute scientific evidence and technical expertise that support the development of resilient, equitable, and sustainable health systems for all Tanzanians.

Ifakara booth engagement and high-level visit

The Ifakara exhibition booth also attracted significant attention during the conference, serving as a hub for showcasing the Institute’s research portfolio, innovations, and impact in advancing public health in Tanzania and beyond. The Guest of Honour, the Minister of Health, Mohamed Mchengerwa, visited the booth, where he was briefed on the Institute’s ongoing research activities, key achievements, and contributions to strengthening health systems, disease control, and evidence-based policymaking. 

He commended the Institute for its role in generating high-quality scientific evidence and supporting national health priorities. The visit provided an important opportunity for dialogue on scaling up research-driven solutions and further strengthening collaboration between Ifakara and the Ministry of Health in advancing Universal Health Coverage and Tanzania’s health development agenda.