United Nations in Tanzania

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Tanzania:

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Publication

15 February 2023

Voices From the Field - KJP Special Edition

The programme builds upon the ongoing UN development interventions in the region. Through the KJP, the UN, therefore, continues to: Implement an area-based cross-sectoral UN joint programme focused on addressing the root causes of poverty and human insecurity in all its dimensions to enhance the resilience and livelihood of communities living in Kigoma Region. Apply a holistic durable approach to include both refugees, migrants in the region, host communities and host districts. Implement the principles of the New Way of Working (NWOW) which encourages humanitarian and development agencies to work collaboratively based on their comparative advantages, towards ‘collective outcomes’ that reduce need, risk and vulnerability over multiple years. Support the humanitarian-development nexus by linking together the UN’s existing response to refugees and migrants with an expanded development support to the host communities. Support stability and prosperity in the Kigoma region, in turn, contributing to stability in the Great Lakes regional context.

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01 September 2022

Government and Development Partners Meet in Zanzibar for Strategic Dialogue

Yesterday, the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania and the Development Partners Group (DPG) held a Strategic Dialogue Meeting to enhance development cooperation and foster attainment of sustainable development aspirations for Tanzania. It was the first time that the meeting was being held in Zanzibar and the two sides discussed the status of their Development Cooperation Framework (DCF) including progress that has been made in its implementation, areas that could be improved and ways to improve collaboration going forward. The meeting was opened by the First Vice President of the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar, H.E. Othman Masoud Sharif, on behalf of the President of Zanzibar and the Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, H.E. Hussein Ali Mwinyi. The First Vice President thanked development partners for supporting Tanzania bilaterally and multilaterally and committed to continue providing a friendly environment for development support to Tanzania. The meeting was well attended by the DPG under the leadership of the respective co-chairs of the DPG, the acting High Commissioner of Canada, H.E. Helen Fytche and UN Resident Coordinator, Mr. Zlatan Milisic. Other DPG members in attendance included heads of development cooperation and representatives from Brazil, the European Union (EU) and its member states, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Ireland, Italy, Sweden, as well as Japan, Norway, Oman, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, and also heads and representatives of UN Agencies in Tanzania and of the World Bank and African Development Bank. Speaking on behalf of the DPG, Mr. Milisic commended the visible progress made in the development cooperation between the DPG and the Government over the years highlighting that, "DPs appreciate the Government’s recognition of the importance of national unity and social cohesion, rule of law, respect for human rights, an equitable society, peace and security, as prerequisites for sustainable and inclusive socio-economic development." Mr. Milisic added that, "DPs will continue to work with Government and other actors on these values, seeking to increase access to justice and human rights protection, and to ensure that no one is left behind in the development processes." The Government and DPG agreed to follow up on a number of actions to further enhance development cooperation in Tanzania which will be tabled at a high-level meeting between the two sides that is set to take place later this year. The Strategic Dialogue Meeting was also attended by a broad range of civil society, business representatives and academic and research institutions. The dialogue was followed by a Consultative Meeting Between DPs and the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar under the theme ‘Zanzibar’s Strategic Position to Enhance Engagement in Sustaining Development’. This meeting took place the day after the strategic dialogue with the same stakeholders participating. It was co-chaired by the Secretary of the Revolutionary Council and Chief Secretary, Engineer Zena Said and the DPG co-chairs. The consultative meeting focused specifically on development cooperation in Zanzibar and included briefings for DPs on the Zanzibar Development Plan (ZADEP) 2021-2026 and its priority areas. DPs also gained better insight into the Integrated National Financing Framework (INFF) for Zanzibar, opportunities and challenges for the health and agriculture sectors, as well as private sector and civil society engagement in the development agenda. The DPs also presented to stakeholders and gave their perspectives on partnerships, the blue economy and potential opportunities to enhance cooperation.

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19 July 2022

UNHCR-supported community centres giving hope to young Tanzanian women

____________________________________________________________________ “Malogerwa vocational school changed my life. I am now an entrepreneur, and my future is bright,” asserted 21-year-old Sporah. “I have a job now with a Non-Governmental Organization. I would not have gotten this position without the knowledge gained from learning computer skills,” voiced Yuditha with a broad smile. Sporah and Yuditha are two examples of hundreds of young Tanzanian women who have acquired practical skills that enable them to master various trades from the vocational training centres located at the periphery of the refugee camps in Kibondo and Kasulu Districts. The training offered by UNHCR and the Danish Refugee Council include; Information Community Technologies (ICT), tailoring, soap making, phone fixing, bicycle repair, hairdressing, and baking, among others. Born to a low-income family in Kibondo District, Sporah was unable to go beyond primary school due to poverty. Likewise, 19-year-old Yuditha from Kasulu District finished her secondary education in 2019 but could not continue with tertiary education due to financial difficulties. Sporah and Yuditha joined classes at Maloregwa and Nyarugusu, respectively, after receiving information from their village leaders. Following a rigorous screening process, Sporah took up tailoring and embroidery classes. “I learnt and developed skills in tailoring, embroidery, design, life skills, and financial literacy that has helped me make informed financial decisions in my business,” she said. After the training, Sporah received a sewing machine as part of a start-up kit, and she has now set up a thriving business where she is also training other young women. Yuditha, on the other hand, made it to the highly contested ICT course, being one of the three women in a class of 40 students. “Growing up, I was always fascinated watching people typing and moving the computer mouse around at nearby stationery shops. I always wished I could do the same one day,” she laughs. “Today, I am a proud ICT certificate holder, from the only institution offering this course in the entire village, and happily employed,” she adds. During the 3–6-month skills training at the community Centres, refugees and Tanzanians from nearby villages learn side by side, interact freely, and learn from each other. “I met new people and made new friends among them, refugees. They are people just like you and me; what differentiates us (Tanzanians) from them (refugees) is they are living at the camp while we are at home where we can practice after classes,” said Sporah. “Access to livelihood reduces refugees’ dependence on humanitarian aid and increases self-reliance among communities,” said Peter Opio, UNHCR Livelihood Officer. “Extending services to the host community contributes to promoting peaceful coexistence and enhances social cohesion between refugees and refugee hosting communities in line with the aspirations of the Global Compact on Refugees,” he added. Nengo Village leader Mr. Jumanne Rashid added that the training centre has opened doors to many young people in his area and helps them become self-reliant, which is crucial in reducing poverty at the district level. The village leader appealed to UNHCR and partners to continue with the support as it helps them achieve their development goals. Constructed in 2017 under the United Nations Kigoma Joint Programme (KJP), with funding from the Government of Norway, the Community Centres have contributed positively to the lives of 3,764 (2,017 female) individuals. More than 15 percent (570) of the graduates were Tanzanian nationals from the nearby villages. Through the KJP, UNHCR, and other UN actors have been working towards achieving collective outcomes that reduce the needs, risks, and vulnerabilities of communities in the Kigoma region accrued over multiple years.

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23 March 2023

Norway Announces TZS26.4 billion to Accelerate SDGs in Tanzania

Norway has announced a contribution of NOK 120 million (TZS 26.4 billion) to the Tanzania Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Acceleration Fund, aimed at accelerating SDGs in Tanzania. The Tanzania SDG Acceleration Fund is a pooled-funding mechanism established in support of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) for the United Republic of Tanzania, 2022-2027. The Tanzania SDG Acceleration Fund seeks to reduce multidimensional poverty in Tanzania through transformative, greener, inclusive, sustainable economic growth and development, in line with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the SDGs, and national priorities. Norway's contribution will focus on supporting joint programs involving multiple UN organizations and partners, with the aim of leveraging the UN's extensive expertise in various areas for greater development impact. Bjørg Sandkjær, Norway’s State Secretary of International Development, who is currently visiting Tanzania, said, "We are pleased to announce this contribution to the Tanzania SDG Acceleration Fund. Through this Fund, we aim to contribute to the reduction of multidimensional poverty in Tanzania and to support joint UN action at the country level." The contribution makes Norway the first donor to the new Tanzania SDG Acceleration Fund. Mr. Zlatan Milisic, UN Resident Coordinator in Tanzania, expressed his gratitude, saying, "We thank the Government and people of Norway for this new contribution. It is a testament to the strong partnership between Norway and the United Nations in Tanzania, and our shared commitment to supporting Tanzania in achieving the SDGs." The Tanzania SDG Acceleration Fund is a joint initiative between the United Nations and the Government of Tanzania that aims to mobilize and direct pooled resources to high-impact and transformative results to accelerate SDG progress in Tanzania. The fund prioritizes special efforts to ensure that no one is left behind. Norway's contribution of reliable and flexible funding will enable the UN to respond to Tanzania’s development priorities and needs in a more integrated and efficient way.

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08 February 2023

Making a Splash: Beach Clean-Up in Tanzania

Today, the UN in Tanzania partnered with City Clean Tanzania and the Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner’s Office to raise awareness on the importance of keeping our oceans and water sources clean. The initiative brought together UN staff, development partners, and members of the local community to clean-up Coco Beach in Dar es Salaam to promote responsible waste management and preservation of natural resources. The beach clean-up also promoted cooperation and teambuilding, while raising public awareness on the impact of plastic and other forms of waste on our oceans and the role that each of us can play in addressing this global issue. The clean-up is also an advocacy initiative under the Planet outcome of the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2022-2027. The Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner, Hon. Amos G. Makalla, participated in the clean-up and commended the UN and partners for organizing the event which he said serves as a reminder that we all have a responsibility to keep the beach, and the rest of Dar es Salaam, clean. He emphasized that his office has been coordinating a campaign to keep Tanzania’s commercial capital clean and welcomed the participation of the UN and other organisations in this campaign which will continue in Kinondoni towards the end of February and will also take place in other Dar es Salaam districts throughout 2023. UN agencies, funds and programmes that participated in the event included the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office, FAO, ILO, UNCDF, UNDP, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNICEF, UNOPS and WHO. UNESCO Representative, Mr. Michel Toto, represented the UN family at the event. Speaking on behalf of the UN Resident Coordinator in Tanzania, Mr. Zlatan Milisic, the UNESCO representative called for a strong stance stand against the pollution of oceans and water sources and called on stakeholders to make a commitment to creating a more sustainable future. Mr. Toto further pointed out that sustainable livelihoods and a clean environment go hand in hand. "By promoting responsible waste management and preserving our natural resources, we are creating a brighter future for all. Over 500 million people depend on the ocean as a vital source of nourishment. In Tanzania, the ocean is the very basis of the blue economy that supports livelihoods across the country," he said. This call to action highlights the UN’s commitment to keeping our oceans clean and promoting sustainable livelihoods for communities that depend on water sources for their social and economic well-being. This ties in directly to Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water, which seeks to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources for sustainable development. This initiative is also part of the UN ActNow campaign, which was launched at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP 24) in 2018, has been a catalyst for similar movements in Tanzania and across the globe. The campaign has gained widespread support from influencers, companies and the general public, and has amplified the global call for climate action. The beach clean-up is one of the ways in which the UN is demonstrating its commitment to this important issue. As the world moves towards the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), it is important for all of us to take action and work together to create a more sustainable future.

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07 December 2022

UNHCR commemorates DAFI’s 30th Anniversary

On 6 December 2022, UNHCR, in collaboration with its partner, the International Rescue Committee (IRC), organized a ceremony in Dar es Salaam with the participation of high-level officials, including a Representative of the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Deputy Head of Mission of the German Embassy, and UNHCR's Deputy Representative. This celebration followed the 30th-anniversary commemoration launched at the University of Iringa in July 2022 with an introductory seminar on refugee rights and international refugee protection. At the end of the said ceremony, DAFI students, participants, and the University's management planted more than thirty trees around the higher education structure. In addition, other commemorations were held at refugee camps in Nduta and Nyarugusu in Kigoma region. As a reminder, the DAFI Scholarship Programme is an academic initiative implemented by UNHCR with financial support from Germany, enabling young refugees to pursue higher education. More specifically, it offers qualified refugee students the possibility to earn an undergraduate degree in hard science, social sciences, humanities, and arts in their countries of asylum. In Tanzania, the programme was launched in 1994, and, to date, more than 460 refugees benefited from the scholarship, allowing them to access local universities. These include the University of Iringa, the University of Dodoma, the Institute of Finance and Management, and the Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences of Dar es Salaam. "The DAFI Scholarship Programme is the unique opportunity for refugee students to pursue their studies at the tertiary level in Tanzania," said Mr. Yanik Yankeu, Education Officer at UNHCR Tanzania. For UNHCR, such initiatives benefit students and allow them to positively contribute to their host communities or their country of origin after voluntarily repatriating. "If we give education to refugees, we are contributing to solving problems that lead to turmoil which results in many people being driven away from home." So said UNHCR's Deputy Representative, Mr. George Kuchio, in his opening remarks. As of 30 June 2022, a date marking the end of an academic year, 81,605 refugee children out of 95,028 school-age children were enrolled in 56 camp-based schools. This increase is attributed to administering of examinations to 7,143 candidates, including 5,581 from the Democratic Republic of Congo and 1,562 from Burundi, for the 2021 and 2022 cohorts, respectively. Moreover, during the ceremony, Ms. Amina Ismail Haji, a Computer Science student and one of the DAFI refugee beneficiaries, spoke on behalf of the scholarship recipients in Tanzania. She thanked the Government of Tanzania for the protection and for granting permission to exit the camp to pursue education at different levels of study. However, she expressed some challenges refugee students face, like “permit delays” and “living costs”. Currently, less than 1% of refugee students have access to tertiary education in Tanzania. This figure could be explained by, among various factors, the lack of mainstreaming refugee education into the national education system, high examination costs, financial constraints, and language barriers. "I call for more collective efforts and investment in higher education for refugees to help transform their lives and prospects. These efforts would ensure we reach the global '15by30' goal, aiming to increase enrolment in higher education of young refugee women and men to 15% by 2030," added Yankeu, UNHCR's Education Officer.

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07 December 2022

Refugee-hosting Communities to Receiving Development Support from UN & Partners

The United Republic of Tanzania has been hosting refugees for several decades warranting greater support, not just to the humanitarian response, but also for the sustainable development for host communities. The UN responded to this need through the Kigoma Joint Programme (KJP) which was launched in 2017 and concluded in June earlier this year. The KJP Phase One (KJP I) built a more equitable response to the region's responsiblity of hosting over 250,000 refugees from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Burundi. The UN in Tanzania, in collaboration with National and Regional Authorities and many other partners, managed to build the resilience of host communities and refugees through developmental interventions in refugee hosting areas and service provision for all. KJP I operated through six (6) themes which are: Youth and Women Economic Empowerment; Agriculture; Elimination of Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC); Education; Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH); and Health+. Through the interventions under these thematic areas, more than 400,000 people were reached mainly from the refugee hosting districts (67% being women). The evaluation report of the programme, joint assessments and testimonies from the region affirm that there have been significant improvement people’s lives in these areas. Looking to build on these interventions, the UN, together with the Government and other development stakeholders, have today launched the KJP Phase Two (KJP II) which will run from 2022-2027. Whereas KJP I focused only on the districts that were hosting refugees in the region, KJP II aims to cover all six districts of Kigoma Region, namely Kigoma, Uvinza, Buhigwe, Kasulu, Kibondo and Kakonko. In line with the SDGs principle of leaving no one behind, KJP II will target the most vulnerable people including those living with disabilities. Speaking at the launch, UN Resident Coordinator, Mr. Zlatan Milisic, highlighted the four outcomes of phase two and emphasized that, "As the UN in Tanzania, we reiterate our recognition to the refugee host communities as agents of change in our efforts toward sustainable development in Tanzania. Approximately USD 92.5 million will be required to achieve all outcomes in all the targeted populations and geographical areas of which USD 20.6 million is committed by participating UN Agencies and generous support/pledge from our development partners, some of them are present with us here - asanteni sana!" KJP II Outcome Areas The four outcome areas of the KJP II are aligned to the overall outcome areas of the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) which will guide the work of the UN in Tanzania from 2022-27. The four outcome areas as the apply to KJP II are: People Ensuring more people in Kigoma, particularly the most marginalized and those affected by humanitarian situations, participate in equitable and inclusive quality education and skills development, climate resilient WASH services, integrated, resilient and gender-responsive health and nutrition services and protection. Prosperity Ensuring people living in Kigoma Region working in MSMEs and small-scale agriculture, especially the most vulnerable, women and youth, achieve increased and more sustainable productivity and incomes with more equitable access to productive resources. Planet Ensuring communities in Kigoma Region have improved capacity to manage and conserve natural resources and land, increased resilience to disasters and adverse effects of climate change and have greater access to efficient and renewable energy. Enabling Environment Ensuring that communities in Kigoma participate in and benefit from more effective, inclusive, and accountable economic, migration, governance, peace, security and justice systems.

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22 November 2022

Elderly Refugee Couple benefit from Non- Communicable Diseases (NCDs) - Project

“My life greatly improved after receiving medication and complementary feeding for my diabetes” said Elongo Byosaa. Ms. Elongo Byosaa (71) and her husband Ramazani Yangya (75), are Congolese refugees living in Nyarugusu camp. The couple were diagnosed with diabetes and hypertension in January 2022 thanks to World Diabetes Foundation (WDF) three-years project . Since 2020 at different times the couple experienced combined symptoms of severe headache, dizziness, frequent urination, excessive thirst, and weight changes that caused weakness and inability to perform their daily activities. Her husband became blind as a result of the diagnosis which made the couple more dependent on assistance. Elongo and her husband fled Democratic Republic of Congo in the 1990s due to insecurity and turmoil that caused displacement to thousands. Elongo remembers “the gunshots, machetes, dead bodies and blood everywhere” right before all their three children were tragically killed. The couple managed to carry a few items including one family picture before they left Congo with their two young grandsons. Every year, on 14 November, the world celebrates World Diabetes Day to raise awareness on the disease. Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) shows that about 422 million people worldwide have diabetes, the majority living in low-and middle-income countries, and 1.5 million deaths are directly attributed to diabetes each year. Both the number of cases and the prevalence of diabetes have been steadily increasing over the past few decades In the refugee camps, 6,138 diabetes and hypertension consultations have been made among refugees and 760 among the host population who seek services in Nyarugusu camp. Elongo and husband started their diabetes treatment immediately after diagnosis in early 2022. As part of a comprehensive response to NCDs, UNHCR and partners through the WDF funding are conducting community mobilization for early diagnosis of NCDs especially diabetes, training of health care workers, supply of diagnostics, provision of complementary feeding, and provision of specialist consultations in the camps. Speaking on his change of diet, Ramazani says “I receive additional meals as advised by doctors to help with my diabetes.” He receives fruits and vegetables to supplement pulses, maize flour, vegetable oils and others provided by United Nations World Food Programme (WFP). Ramazani believes this change of diet has greatly improved his life and management of diabetes symptoms and others like him at the camp. “Diabetes and other NCDs are on the increase globally and continue to burden the health systems especially in the developing countries,” explained Gideon Ndawula, UNHCR Public Health Officer. This is worse in humanitarian settings where health systems are majorly set up to deal with infectious diseases. Health services inclusive of NCDs in Nyarugusu camp are provided through the Tanzania Red Cross Society (TRCS) main hospital and an additional health facility. “This additional health facility is appreciated by people we serve as this brings the service closer to their home areas,” said Mohamed Abbas, TRCS Health Coordinator. “Targeting prevention through community sensitization and mobilization, early diagnosis accompanied with a health system strengthening approach to handle NCDs will provide a positive outcome in addressing the increasing NCDs burden on the health system,” added Gideon. The program targets to reach over 240,000 refugees and asylum seekers and 53,000 people from the host community. With the current - project of the World Diabetes Foundation, UNHCR and partners continue to provide the necessary support and services. However, more funds are needed in the lacking areas and ongoing challenges including lack of self-empowerment and resources for patients to self-monitor their diagnosis, medical referrals, and general health infrastructure improvements and expansion.

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Press Release

09 March 2023

Joint message from the UN Resident Coordinator, UN Women Representative and UNFPA Representative on International Women’s Day

Women are underrepresented in innovation and technology-related fields worldwide, including Tanzania. According to the UNESCO Science Report (2021), only 33% of researchers worldwide are women. The gender gap in innovation and technology is particularly pronounced in certain fields. For example, women make up only 7% of inventors in the field of mechanical engineering, and only 12% of inventors in the field of electrical engineering. As we celebrate International Women's Day in Tanzania this year, the theme "Cracking the Code: Innovation for a gender-equal future" couldn't be more fitting. It reminds us that to achieve gender equality, we must think innovatively, creatively and find new solutions to old problems. We need to break the codes and negative social and gender norms that hold women back and continue building a world where everyone has equal opportunities to thrive. Innovation has always been a driving force in human progress. It has transformed the way we live, work, and interact with each other. It has brought us new technologies, ideas, and ways of viewing the world. But as we innovate, we must ensure we are not leaving anyone behind. Women and girls in Tanzania, particularly the most marginalized such as women and girls with disabilities, migrants, minorities, refugees, and those living in rural areas, continue to face barriers that limit their potential and hold them back from achieving their goals. From unequal pay for equal work to limited access to education, healthcare and participation, regional variations in Tanzania are profound; these barriers must be dismantled if we are to create a truly gender-equal future. One area where innovation can make a significant difference is in the workplace. Despite progress in recent years, women continue to be underrepresented in leadership positions and face a persistent gender pay gap. Multiple sectors in Tanzania have begun to embrace flexible working arrangements that allow women to balance work and family responsibilities more effectively. Expanding these opportunities through access to community-based care institutions, remote work, job sharing, and flexible hours provides benefits for all. By giving women more control over their work schedules, we can create a more equitable and inclusive workplace; when women thrive, everyone benefits. Innovation in healthcare in Tanzania continues to evolve. With improved access to quality sexual and reproductive health and rights, family planning continues to be an important healthcare service, with stagnant progress in unmet needs. While there are many methods potentially available, they are not equally available and may not meet the contraceptive and reproductive health needs of all persons. New methods and delivery systems, more thoughtful and patient-centered counselling, and rigorous assessment of outcomes can inform and improve the quality of care. Another area where innovation makes a significant difference is education. According to UNESCO, women in Tanzania represent 40 per cent of university enrollment, but only about 24 per cent are enrolled in science, engineering and technology fields. Girls continue to be underrepresented in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields and face stereotypes and biases that discourage them from pursuing these subjects. By promoting STEM education for girls and providing them with role models and mentors in these fields, we recognize the national universities in Tanzania enhancing opportunities for STEM education for women which helps to break down these barriers and create a more inclusive and diverse workforce. Innovation can also help to address the issue of gender-based violence, which affects women and girls worldwide, including in Tanzania. From sexual harassment to domestic violence, girls and women continue to face significant risks to their safety and well-being. By developing new technologies and tools to prevent and respond to violence against women through a survivor-centred approach with easy access to health, social welfare, police and justice, we can create a safer and more just society for everyone. We celebrate national successes in Tanzania in innovation toward a gender-equal future. At the national level, the 2022 Census, which for the first time used digital technology, will provide detailed gender-disaggregated data to inform policies and programming that support women and girls. At the local level, a small-scale project demonstrates promise: Digital Champions, provided with mobile phones, are empowered to trace and report GBV cases in their areas. We salute the many champions across Tanzania who recognize that human rights are women’s rights, and work toward the prevention of harmful practices in their communities and uphold gender equality. With strong female leadership in place in Tanzania, women in Tanzania express that they are claiming the space to move forward, networking and innovating towards gender equality. Ultimately, achieving a gender-equal future will require strong commitment to innovation and creativity. The recently published Demographic and Health Survey and Malaria 2022 Key Indicators demonstrate progress in maternal health, but the innovations that enable these advances must be scaled up and shared across the country to support Tanzania’s growing population. We must challenge our assumptions and think outside the box. By working together, we can create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of gender. The United Nations in Tanzania, delivering as one, supports the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania to achieve our shared aim toward Sustainable Development Goal 5: Gender equality. So let us embrace the national theme of International Women's Day this year in Tanzania and crack the code to a more gender-equal future.

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Press Release

14 February 2023

UNHCR’s Grandi lauds progress in Burundian refugee returns, urges more support

More than 200,000 Burundian refugees have been assisted by UNHCR, The UN Refugee Agency, to return voluntarily from neighbouring countries since 2017. Wrapping up a two-day visit to the country, Grandi also expressed appreciation to President Evariste Ndayishime for Burundi’s efforts towards stabilization. “We live in a world with only a few windows to pursue solutions for displacement. Too often, conflicts last for many years, but I am encouraged to see Burundian refugees making the choice to return after years in exile. We all need to work to ensure that their repatriation is sustainable,” said Grandi. “The efforts from the Government of Burundi and partners to assist Burundian refugees returning home are encouraging.” Grandi visited the Rugombo area, where he met some of those who have recently returned and witnessed UNHCR’s and partners’ support for returnees as they rebuild their lives. Assistance includes transportation, food, a cash grant, and household items when they return to Burundi. Given the magnitude of the needs, UNHCR has decided to strengthen its support to returnees. “However, we need development actors to help improve access to services and livelihoods in the communities where they are returning, which also need support. These are citizens of Burundi that need to be integrated into national development plans and initiatives,” Grandi added. Burundi is also generously hosting 80,000 Congolese refugees. Grandi visited Cishemere transit center, in the northwest of the country bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where he met refugees fleeing brutal violence and attacks in Eastern DRC. From Burundi, Grandi flew to Dodoma, Tanzania to meet President Samia Suluhu Hassan. Among the issues discussed was the progress made in creating conditions in Burundi more conducive for refugee return. Grandi also welcomed Tanzania’s long tradition of welcoming refugees and advocated for continued efforts to address the needs of those fleeing conflict. Nearly 248,000 refugees and asylum-seekers, mainly from Burundi and the DRC, live in Tanzania. The country hosts the largest number of Burundian refugees globally. “Our teams will continue to work closely with the two Governments, partners, and donors, including development actors, to protect and find solutions for those displaced,” said Grandi. In this context, UNHCR welcomes the recent announcement by the European Union to generously provide €40 million over the coming years to multiple partners supporting solutions in Burundi. The funding will ensure Burundian refugees in the region, as well as those who have returned home, have the support they need to live in safety and dignity. Assistance will include support for protection and resilience, legal assistance, gender-based violence prevention and response, literacy, and agricultural activities. For more information on this topic, please contact: Chadi Oanes, ouanes@unhcr.org , +255 755 314 549 Goodness Mrema, mremag@unhcr.org +255 714 058 749

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Press Release

01 February 2023

African leaders unite in pledge to end AIDS in children DAR ES SALAAM, 1 February 2023

International partners have set out how they would support countries in delivering on those plans, which were issued at the first ministerial meeting of the Global Alliance to end AIDS in children. The meeting hosted by the United Republic of Tanzania, marks a step up in action to ensure that all children with HIV have access to life saving treatment and that mothers living with HIV have babies free from HIV. The Alliance will work to drive progress over the next seven years, to ensure that the 2030 target is met. Currently, around the world, a child dies from AIDS related causes every five minutes. Only half (52%) of children living with HIV are on life-saving treatment, far behind adults of whom three quarters (76%) are receiving antiretrovirals. In 2021,160 000 children newly acquired HIV. Children accounted for 15% of all AIDS-related deaths, despite the fact that only 4% of the total number of people living with HIV are children. In partnership with networks of people living with HIV and community leaders, ministers laid out their action plans to help find and provide testing to more pregnant women and link them to care. The plans also involve finding and caring for infants and children living with HIV. The Dar-es-Salaam Declaration on ending AIDS in children was endorsed unanimously. Vice-President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Philip Mpango said, “Tanzania has showed its political engagement, now we need to commit moving forward as a collective whole. All of us in our capacities must have a role to play to end AIDS in children. The Global Alliance is the right direction, and we must not remain complacent. 2030 is at our doorstep.” The First Lady of Namibia Monica Geingos agreed. “This gathering of leaders is uniting in a solemn vow – and a clear plan of action – to end AIDS in children once and for all,” she said. “There is no higher priority than this.” Twelve countries with high HIV burdens have joined the alliance in the first phase: Angola, Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, South Africa, the United Republic of Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The work will centre on four pillars across: 1. Early testing and optimal treatment and care for infants, children, and adolescents; 2. Closing the treatment gap for pregnant and breastfeeding women living with HIV, to eliminate vertical transmission; 3. Preventing new HIV infections among pregnant and breastfeeding adolescent girls and women; and 2 4. Addressing rights, gender equality and the social and structural barriers that hinder access to services. UNICEF welcomed the leaders’ commitments and pledged their support. "Every child has the right to a healthy and hopeful future, but for more than half of children living with HIV, that future is threatened," said UNICEF Associate Director Anurita Bains. "We cannot let children continue to be left behind in the global response to HIV and AIDS. Governments and partners can count on UNICEF to be there every step of the way. This includes work to integrate HIV services into primary health care and strengthen the capacity of local health systems." “This meeting has given me hope,” said Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director of UNAIDS. “An inequality that breaks my heart is that against children living with HIV, and leaders today have set out their commitment to the determined action needed to put it right. As the leaders noted, with the science that we have today, no baby needs to be born with HIV or get infected during breastfeeding, and no child living with HIV needs to be without treatment. The leaders were clear: they will close the treatment gap for children to save children’s lives.” WHO set out its commitment to health for all, leaving no children in need of HIV treatment behind. “More than 40 years since AIDS first emerged, we have come a long way in preventing infections among children and increasing access to treatment, but progress has stalled,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “The Global Alliance to End AIDS in Children is a much-needed initiative to reinvigorate progress. WHO is committed to supporting countries with the technical leadership and policy implementation to realise our shared vision of ending AIDS in children by 2030.” Peter Sands, Executive Director of The Global Fund said, “In 2023, no child should be born with HIV, and no child should die from an AIDS-related illness. Let’s seize this opportunity to work in partnership to make sure the action plans endorsed today are translated into concrete steps and implemented at scale. Together, led by communities most affected by HIV, we know we can achieve remarkable results.” PEPFAR’s John Nkengasong, U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator, said he remains confident. "Closing the gap for children will require laser focus and a steadfast commitment to hold ourselves, governments, and all partners accountable for results. In partnership with the Global Alliance, PEPFAR commits to elevate the HIV/AIDS children's agenda to the highest political level within and across countries to mobilize the necessary support needed to address rights, gender equality and the social and structural barriers that hinder access to prevention and treatment services for children and their families." EGPAF President and CEO, Chip Lyons, said that the plans shared, if implemented, would mean children were no longer left behind. “Often, services for children are set aside when budgets are tight or other challenges stand in the way. Today, African leaders endorsed detailed plans to end AIDS in children – now is the time for us all to commit to speaking up for children so that they are both prioritized and included in the HIV response.” Delegates emphasized the importance of a grounds-up approach with local, national and regional stakeholders taking ownership of the initiative, and engagement of a broad set of partners. “We have helped shape the Global Alliance and have ensured that human rights, community engagement and gender equality are pillars of the Alliance,” said Lilian Mworeko, Executive 3 Director of the International Community of Women living with HIV in Eastern Africa on behalf of ICW, Y+ Global and GNP+. “We believe a women-led response is key to ending AIDS in children.” The alliance has engaged support from Africa REACH and other diverse partners and welcomes all countries to join. Progress is possible. Sixteen countries and territories have already been certified for validation of eliminating vertical transmission of HIV and/or syphilis; while HIV and other infections can pass from a mother to child during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, such transmission can be interrupted with prompt HIV treatment for pregnant women living with HIV or pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for mothers at risk of HIV infection. . Last year Botswana was the first African country with high HIV prevalence to be validated as being on the path to eliminating vertical transmission of HIV, which means the country had fewer than 500 new HIV infections among babies per 100 000 births. The vertical transmission rate in the country was 2% versus 10% a decade ago. UNAIDS, networks of people living with HIV, UNICEF and WHO together with technical partners, PEPFAR and The Global Fund unveiled the Global Alliance to end AIDS in children in July 2022 at the AIDS conference in Montreal, Canada. Now, at its first ministerial meeting, African leaders have set out how the Alliance will deliver on the promise to end AIDS in children by 2030. [END] Contact UNAIDS | Charlotte Sector | sectorc@unaids.org The Global Fund | Ann Vaessen | ann.vaessen@theglobalfund.org UNICEF | Lazeena Muna-Mcquay | lmunamcquay@unicef.org WHO | Sonali Reddy | reddys@who.in

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Press Release

07 December 2022

UNHCR commemorates DAFI’s 30th Anniversary

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Press Release

07 July 2022

Global Lead Coordinator for COVID-19 Vaccination Delivery in Tanzania

Mr. Ted Chaiban, the Global Lead Coordinator for COVID-19 Vaccine Delivery Partnership (CoVDP), is in Tanzania for an official four-day visit. A key part of his visit took place yesterday where he met with Vice President of the United Republic of Tanzania, H.E. Philip Isdor Mpango to discuss strategies to accelerate COVID-19 vaccination uptake in Tanzania and meet its vaccination coverage goals. Mr. Chaiban has also been meeting with other high-level Government officials, development partners, communities, religious leaders and other key stakeholders during his visit. “I congratulate the Government for their efforts in promoting vaccination against COVID-19. I am here to take stock of where Tanzania is in meeting its vaccination coverage objectives and identify a way forward to address any bottlenecks and scale-up the vaccination programme,” said Mr. Chaiban. He was speaking alongside the Minister of Health, Hon. Ummy Mwalimu following a joint meeting between the two of them, the Minister of Finance and Planning, and the Minister of State in the President’s Office (Regional Administration and Local Governance). Mr. Chaiban stressed that the pandemic is far from over and that the risk of new variants, especially in under-vaccinated populations, remains high. “COVID-19 is still with us and we need to ensure that we protect those most at risk including the elderly, people with underlying conditions, frontline health workers and those working in sectors such as tourism and hospitality. The vaccine is our best protection against COVID-19. No one is safe until we are all safe. As they say in Kiswahili: ‘Ni ujanja kuchanja’! Mr. Chaiban was appointed as CoVDP Global Lead Coordinator, at the level of Assistant Secretary-General, in February 2022 by the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres. ### Note to editors: COVID-19 Vaccination Update
As of early July 2022, almost 12 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines had been administered globally. According to the WHO, 61 per cent of the world population have been fully vaccinated butonly 13 per cent in low-income countries. The WHO Africa and Eastern Mediterranean regions account for the largest proportion of unvaccinated for the total population. In Tanzania, the COVID-19 vaccination programme started on 28 July 2021. About 10 million Tanzanians have received at least one dose and 8,553,930 (13.96%) have been fully vaccinated to date. About Ted Chaiban
Ted Chaiban has a long and illustrious career with UNICEF. He has been Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa since October 2019. Prior to this role, he was UNICEF Director of Programmes (2014-2019), Director of Emergency Programmes (2012-2014), UNICEF Representative in Ethiopia (2009-2012) in Sudan (2005-2009) Sri Lanka (2002-2005). Read his full bio here. About COVID-19 Vaccine Delivery Partnership (CoVDP)
The COVID-19 Vaccine Delivery Partnership (CoVDP) is an inter-agency initiative launched by UNICEF, WHO and Gavi in January 2022 to support the 92 AMC countries in accelerating vaccine delivery with a particular focus on the 34 countries, including Tanzania, that were at or below 10 per cent in January 2022.

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