Dar es Salaam - The Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has concluded a high-level visit to Tanzania, where he met with President Samia Suluhu Hassan, members of the UN Country Team, and international development partners to discuss the country’s health priorities and ongoing response to the recent Marburg virus disease outbreak in the Kagera region.

Speaking during a media briefing in Dodoma, Dr. Tedros praised the Tanzanian government for its rapid and coordinated response to the outbreak, which marks the country’s second experience with Marburg virus since 2023.

“I commend Her Excellency President Samia Suluhu Hassan for her decisive leadership and the swift measures taken to control the outbreak,” Dr. Tedros stated. “Tanzania’s investments in preparedness and emergency response are proving vital in this moment.”

Dr. Tedros announced that WHO is releasing 3 million US dollars from its Contingency Fund for Emergencies to support the national response—supplementing the $50,000 previously provided for initial investigations.

Since the first suspected cases were reported earlier this month, Tanzania has scaled up its response by establishing treatment centres, enhancing case detection, setting up a mobile laboratory, and deploying rapid response teams. Dr. Tedros emphasized that the capacities built following the 2023 outbreak, which saw nine cases and six deaths, have strengthened the country’s ability to respond effectively.

Beyond outbreak response, the WHO Director-General commended Tanzania’s continued progress toward universal health coverage, citing key milestones including the enactment of the Universal Health Insurance Act of 2023, the Community Health Workers Program, and the successful completion of the Universal Health and Preparedness Review (UHPR).

“These efforts reflect a deep commitment to health equity and system resilience. Tanzania is setting an example for the region,” he said.

As part of his visit, Dr. Tedros also met with the United Nations Country Team in Tanzania and held strategic discussions with development partners, including representatives from the European Union, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), and other bilateral and multilateral agencies. The meetings focused on strengthening coordination in support of Tanzania’s outbreak response and long-term health system strengthening.

“I am grateful for the close collaboration between the government, UN agencies, and international partners,” Dr. Tedros said. “This collective effort is essential not only to end the current outbreak, but to build a healthier and more resilient future.”

Although Marburg virus disease is a severe and often fatal illness—related to the Ebola virus—Dr. Tedros noted that outbreaks can be swiftly controlled through timely detection, community engagement, and strong public health measures. He also emphasized that WHO does not recommend any travel or trade restrictions to or from Tanzania at this time, given the country’s capable response.

“Now is the time for solidarity, not stigma,” he concluded. “WHO stands firmly with the people and Government of Tanzania in this response and in their continued journey toward health for all.”

Dr. Tedros’ visit highlights WHO’s ongoing commitment to supporting Tanzania in emergency response, health system development, and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).