Kigoma – In effort to advance health and nutrition outcomes in one of Tanzania’s most underserved regions, the World Health Organization (WHO), in its role as lead for the Health and Nutrition theme under the Kigoma Joint Programme (KJP), coordinated a week-long engagement that brought together United Nations agencies and government stakeholders. 

The field visit offered a unique opportunity for thematic experts and technical officers to jointly observe the implementation of health and nutrition initiatives on the ground. From maternal and child health programmes to community-based nutrition efforts, the team visited a range of interventions aimed at strengthening access to quality health services across the region. These site visits enabled participants to listen to frontline workers, engage with community members, and assess how joint programming translates into real-world impact. 

“This kind of joint engagement moves us beyond routine reporting. It creates space for genuine learning and reflection, essential for improving the quality and reach of our interventions,” Dr Jairos N. Hiliza said, WHO’s Focal Point for Health and Nutrition Theme. 

Following the field observations, stakeholders gathered in Kasulu for a two-day coordination meeting that served as a forum for reflection, planning, and consensus-building. The team discussed lessons learned from the field, unpacked implementation challenges, and jointly proposed solutions to address them. 

A key focus of the meeting was the validation of the draft Multi-Partner Trust Fund (MPTF) thematic report and the review of the proposed annual workplan for the 2025/2026 programme year. The discussions led to a shared commitment to improve programme delivery through enhanced coordination and accountability. Participants emphasized the importance of documenting best practices, identifying areas for synergy among partners, and ensuring that the interventions receive appropriate visibility through media and public engagement. 

Dr. Dams Kayera, the Regional Medical Officer for Kigoma region, praised the inclusive approach of the mission. “This joint effort is a testament to what we can achieve when partners and government institutions work hand-in-hand,” he said. “The people of Kigoma deserve effective, well-coordinated services, and this mission brings us one step closer.”

As the Kigoma Joint Programme continues to implement area-based and multisectoral development strategies, the outcomes of this mission reaffirm the value of working together.