The PMI Shinda (Defeat) Malaria project, funded by the U.S. President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI), and implemented by the Ifakara Health Institute and partners, yesterday hosted stakeholders in the fight against malaria in Tanzania at the project’s head offices in Dar es Salaam for the Year Two Annual Joint Project Planning Meeting (JPPM).

The stakeholders included representatives from the PMI, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the President's Office - Regional Administration and Local Government (PORALG), the Ministry of Health (MOH), and the National Malaria Control Program (NMCP) in Tanzania.

The meeting aimed to assess the project’s implementation progress, focusing on achievements, strategies, challenges, and mitigation measures. It also provided updates on planned activities and the program’s implementation at both regional and national levels.

In her opening remarks, PMI Resident Advisor Naomi Serbantez commended the project team for their remarkable performance during the 2024 Annual Meeting of the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (ASTMH) in New Orleans, USA. The project presented six posters at the event, showcasing their work.

"I would like to congratulate you for the six outstanding poster presentations displayed during ASTMH. For a local partner, you’ve done an excellent job, with the National Malaria Control Program (NMCP) also playing a role in highlighting the project’s success,” said Ms. Serbantez.

Dr. Samweli Lazaro, NMCP Program Manager, expressed gratitude for the continued support provided by PMI Shinda Malaria, particularly in the regions where the program operates in Tanzania.

The meeting fostered productive discussions, with participants offering valuable feedback to enhance the project’s impact. This collaborative effort highlighted the strong partnerships PMI Shinda Malaria has built with government agencies and local stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of collective action in combating malaria.

Dr. Lazaro appreciated the ongoing support received from PMI Shinda (Defeat) Malaria, especially in the regions where the program is implemented in Tanzania.

Dr. Jema Bisimba, the Deputy Health Director at USAID Tanzania, emphasized the significance of the JPPM in fostering collaboration among partners to address challenges and develop effective solutions.

Participants offered valuable feedback, helping identify areas for enhancement. This collaborative exchange underscored the importance of collaboration PMI Shinda (Defeat) Malaria has built with both government and local partners.