In response to the months-long cholera outbreak in Tanzania, the United States has partnered with the Tanzania Ministry of Health to combat the spread of the disease. The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) have been actively involved in conducting cholera prevention activities, deploying health experts, and improving access to clean water in affected communities.
USAID has allocated TSH 480 million to assist the most affected communities in Tanzania, while the CDC has deployed health professionals from the Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program to six regions. Together, they are focusing on strengthening health education on water, sanitation, and hygiene practices, encouraging sick individuals to seek medical care, conducting household assessments of WASH practices, and distributing water purification tablets.
U.S. Ambassador to Tanzania Michael Battle emphasized the commitment of the United States to support Tanzania in fighting against cholera, a preventable yet deadly disease. The ongoing efforts include a long-term solution involving the improvement of water infrastructure, community awareness initiatives on accessing safe water, and capacity-building for water, sanitation, and hygiene projects.
Since September 2023, the cholera outbreak in Tanzania has led to over 2,500 cases and 46 fatalities, affecting 18 regions. Initial responses by the Ministry of Health have successfully reduced infections in several regions, but active outbreaks remain in 12 regions, with Simiyu, Shinyanga, and Mwanza being the most impacted areas.
The Ministry of Health continues to work with international partners like the United States to prevent further spread of cholera and protect the health of Tanzanians. The collaboration between the Tanzanian government and the United States showcases a united front in the battle against this infectious disease, emphasizing the importance of clean water, sanitation, and hygiene practices in safeguarding public health.
