Kigoma : The World Health Organization (WHO) in Tanzania has delivered critical health supplies, including Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) and Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) kits, to bolster the national response to the ongoing influx of asylum seekers from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This intervention is part of WHO’s broader support to the Government of Tanzania, led by the Ministry of Home Affairs – Refugee Services Department, the Ministry of Health, and collaborating partners.

The supplies were dispatched following a joint rapid health, nutrition and WASH risk assessment, which was conducted to evaluate the potential public health threats posed by the sudden arrival of asylum seekers in border areas and transit centers in Kigoma Region In response to the findings, WHO also facilitated the deployment of healthcare workers to strengthen epidemic surveillance, risk communication, case management, and ensure early detection of potential disease outbreaks.

Asylum seekers are currently being received at key entry points, with thousands passing through transit centers where they require urgent access to health care services. WHO’s support has helped to enhance the capacity of frontline health workers to manage communicable disease risks, uphold infection prevention and control standards, and provide essential primary health care, including maternal and child health services.

“In times of humanitarian crisis, swift health response is critical. We are working closely with the Government, UN organizations and health partners to ensure that asylum seekers have access to safe and essential health services from the moment they arrive,” said Gilbert Fedjo, acting WHO Representative in Tanzania. “Our priority is to prevent disease outbreaks, protect vulnerable populations, and ensure dignity in access to care.

This comprehensive response is being made possible through generous funding from the United Nations Multi-Partner Trust Fund Office (UN MPTFO), through Kigoma Joint Program which has enabled WHO to act quickly and in coordination with other humanitarian actors to address emerging health needs.

“The Ministry of Health and Ministry of Home Affairs-Refugee Service Department appreciates the continued collaboration with WHO and other partners in addressing the health needs of displaced populations. The delivery of essential supplies and technical support is timely and aligns with our goal to prevent disease outbreaks and ensure dignified, accessible care for all,” 

As population movements continue across borders in the region due to conflict and insecurity, WHO reaffirms its commitment to supporting emergency preparedness and response, while strengthening the health system’s capacity to manage public health threats in line with the principles of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and Health for All.