On Febriary 6, 2025, the official launch of the "Scaling Up One Health Systems (SOS-Rabies): Implementation Research for Rabies Elimination in East Africa" project took place in Dar es Salaam. The event brought together government officials, researchers, and international partners to discuss this crucial initiative aimed at eliminating rabies in Tanzania.

Why this project matters

Despite the availability of effective vaccines, rabies remains a major public health threat in Tanzania, challenges in vaccine distribution and dog vaccination efforts have hindered elimination progress. Dr. Georgina Joachim, Program Officer for Immunization and Vaccine Development (IVD), emphasized the urgency of addressing rabies. She stated, "Rabies claims nearly 900 lives in Tanzania each year, making this research critically important. Today, we are launching a vital project—one that marks a real step toward stopping this deadly disease."

About the SOS-Rabies project

In his opening remarks, Dr. Honorati Masanja, Chief Executive Director of Ifakara Health Institute, explained that this four-year research project (2025-2028) aims to eliminate rabies in Tanzania by focusing on the links between human health, animal health, and the environment. It works on three key areas: vaccination, raising awareness, and improving healthcare systems, to create lasting solutions for controlling and eventually eliminating rabies.

What’s needed for SOS-Rabies’ success

The success of SOS-Rabies—and Tanzania’s progress towards ‘Zero by 30’—relies on collaboration among policymakers, program managers, healthcare professionals, and communities. The project aims to harness collective expertise to facilitate learning and identify effective solutions.

Dr Diwani Msemo, the guest of honor on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health highlighted the importance of collaboration to overcome barriers such as vaccine shortages and lack of awareness. "Rabies is preventable. We need to ensure vaccines are available, communities are informed, and bite victims receive care quickly," he stated.

Tanzania’s commitment to a rabies-free future

The launch of SOS-Rabies represents more than just a research initiative—it signifies Tanzania’s dedication to leading rabies elimination efforts in Africa. Dr Diwani Msemo, reaffirmed the government’s commitment, stating, "The Ministry of Health and the Government of Tanzania are committed to working closely with Ifakara Health Institute and international partners to turn research into action."

In his closing remarks, Dr Diwani thanked all stakeholders and expressed confidence in achieving a rabies-free Tanzania. "Together, we can create a future where no one dies from rabies. This project showcases the power of One Health collaboration—not just for Tanzania, but as a model for the region."

With strong government backing, research expertise, and international support, the launch of SOS-Rabies marks a major step towards eliminating rabies in Tanzania and beyond. By fostering collaboration, the project positions Tanzania as a leader in rabies elimination and contributes to Africa’s progress towards ‘Zero by 30’.

SOS-Rabies partners include the Tanzania Ministry of Health, UK Medical Research Council, Gavi the Vaccine Alliance, the World Health Organisation, the Wellcome Trust, and the Ifakara Health Institute.