Tanzania digital health forum gathers innovators in Dar es Salaam

Wednesday 26th November 2025

by inAfrika Newsroom

The 5th Tanzania digital health forum has opened in Dar es Salaam, bringing together government officials, universities, start-ups and global partners to discuss how technology can strengthen the country’s health system. Organised under the Tanzania Digital Health and Innovation Transformation Program 2025, the event is led by the MUHAS Digital Health and Innovation Alliance in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, ICT authorities and international NGOs.

This year’s Tanzania digital health forum focuses on building a “future-ready health workforce” by boosting digital skills and collaboration. Sessions cover electronic medical records, telemedicine, data governance and the use of AI for disease surveillance. Moreover, exhibitors are showcasing tools for maternal health, community outreach and supply-chain tracking, many of which were developed by local innovators. Organisers said the goal is to move pilots into mainstream use across regions.

The programme also includes workshops on interoperability, cybersecurity and financing models for digital solutions. In addition, the Tanzania digital health forum has dedicated space for women and youth innovators, reflecting efforts to diversify the country’s health-tech ecosystem. Partners from Sweden and other countries are sharing lessons on standards, regulation and public–private partnerships that have worked in their own systems.

Skills and partnerships at Tanzania digital health forum

Stakeholders hope the forum will generate concrete commitments on training, funding and integration of digital tools into national strategies. MUHAS and its partners are pushing for more joint projects between universities, government and the private sector. However, participants acknowledged constraints such as patchy connectivity, limited budgets and fragmented legacy systems, which can slow adoption.

Why it matters for Africa

Tanzania’s experience shows how African countries can use digital platforms to extend health services without waiting for perfect physical infrastructure. When a Tanzania digital health forum brings coders, clinicians and policymakers into one room, it helps align technology with real clinical needs. Successful solutions can then spread to neighbouring countries facing similar challenges. Furthermore, building local skills in health data, cybersecurity and AI reduces reliance on imported systems and keeps sensitive information under national control, which is increasingly important for sovereignty and trust.