Strengthening political engagement for One Health approach in Tanzania: the birth of a Parliamentary Alliance

Post date

2 May, 2025

Authors

Kimaro E.G

Sijali Z

Vianney, M

Karembu M

Shirima G

Countries

Tanzania

Introduction

In 2022/23, Tanzania-COHESA conducted a baseline survey as part of Capacitating One Heath in Eastern and Southern Africa (COHESA) project first-year activities. Among its findings, a net mapping exercise revealed a critical gap in the implementation of Tanzania’s One Health (OH) strategic plan: despite their political influence, parliamentarians and other key actors were notably disengaged from One Health initiatives.

This limited involvement from policymakers was identified as a significant barrier to advancing One Health in Tanzania. The One Health approach requires support at every level, particularly from decision-makers who can drive systemic change. When embraced by politicians, the approach can trickle down to local communities, fostering sustainable human development and well-being.

Catalyzing change: Advocacy leads to action

Responding to this challenge, the COHESA Tanzania team began actively advocating for the involvement of policymakers in One Health and Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) initiatives, specifically the implementation of the One Health strategy. This advocacy led to a significant milestone: the establishment of a Parliamentary Alliance for One Health and AMR in June 2024.

In collaboration with the One Health Society, a local NGO, COHESA organized and supported the launch of the Alliance. Key stakeholders including the One Health Section under the Prime Minister’s Office, Breakthrough Action Tanzania, RBI-AMR, relevant sector ministries, and ISAAA Africenter—a COHESA consortium member—played a vital role in making the event a success.

A milestone in policy engagement: champions of One Health

The formation of the Tanzania Parliamentary Alliance for One Health and AMR marked a turning point. It signaled a shift in political attitudes and a growing recognition of the importance of integrated, multisectoral approaches to tackling complex health challenges like antimicrobial resistance, zoonotic diseases, and the impacts of climate change. The Alliance also reflects a greater willingness among policymakers to champion the One Health agenda – support that will be instrumental in shaping comprehensive and effective national strategies.

Ten Members of Parliament were nominated as OH/AMR Champions. These individuals will serve as bridges between policymakers, professionals, and communities—advocating for adoption of One Health responses to health challenges.

At the Alliance launch, Hon. Dr. Joseph Kizito Mhagama (MP), Chairman of the Tanzania Assembly, stated:

Honorable Members of Parliament, you will now be like seeds, like catalysts within our Parliament. You will work as a team to ensure all members understand this matter and help strengthen the policies and laws needed to combat antimicrobial resistance using the One Health approach.

Hon. Dr. Hamisi Kigwangalla (MP), Chairman of the new Alliance, emphasized:

The launch of this Alliance is a crucial step in combating AMR. Our collaborative efforts will help safeguard public health and ensure the sustainability of our healthcare and agricultural systems.

He added:

We are committed to preventing infections, reducing misuse of antibiotics, seeking financial resources, and supporting innovation—including vaccine development. We aim to ensure full community participation in the proper use of medicines to mitigate the long-term effects of AMR.

Reflections and lessons learned

The creation of the OH/AMR Parliamentary Alliance is a major achievement for solving public health challenges in Tanzania. It highlights the importance of engaging policymakers in health initiatives and demonstrates how evidence-based advocacy can lead to impactful change.

A broader inclusion of other parliamentary committees—such as those focusing on public health agriculture, natural resources, and water—could have enhanced understanding and buy-in from a wider group of legislators.

Critical Success Factors

Identifying and addressing the gap in political engagement
Strategic partnerships and collaboration across sectors
Targeted lobbying of MPs who are health professionals
Technical and logistical support from COHESA

Conclusion

Political engagement is essential to advancing the One Health and AMR agenda in Tanzania. The formation of the Parliamentary Alliance has opened new doors for legislative support, policy formulation, and public awareness. As part of this momentum, the Chairman of the Alliance invited COHESA and One Health Society stakeholders to engage directly with the wider National Assembly in Dodoma.

This success story underscores a vital truth: collaboration is key. Through joint efforts between COHESA, local NGOs, and government institutions, Tanzania has taken a bold step towards integrated, sustainable solutions to public health challenges.