Arusha-Tanzania, 23-27 September– Our affiliate, MC-Tanzania in partnership with the Foundation for Preventative Health (FPH) and  SKYGEN International Foundation, proudly launched the third cohort of the Community Health Fellowship Program for 2024-2025. 

The five-day workshop prepares the next generation of young health leaders to combat the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) through preventative health measures. The cohort began its journey with an intensive one-week training that integrates eye care, nutrition, the linkage between oral health and other NCDs, as well as Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) education. 

This year, the workshop brings together 20 newly graduated dental therapists, known as Community Health Fellows, for a six-month fellowship focusing on community-based oral health outreach. The fellows will receive training in leadership and project management and conduct oral health outreaches across Tanzania, to reach approximately 150,000 community members. Services provided under this program include oral health education, screenings, referrals for emergency treatment, and the distribution of toothbrushes and toothpaste.  

Rabia Mkamba, MC-Tanzania’s Acting Country Manager and Finance and Administration Officer highlights the importance of this project.

“The program focuses on addressing shared risk factors between oral health, eye health, and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs), aiming to improve access to oral health education and services in underserved rural areas across Tanzania.” 

“By fostering creative collaborations, the program maximizes resources to tackle multiple health issues, empowering communities to take control of their health and improve their quality of life.” says Noela Shirima, who is among the fellows of the third cohort. 

This year’s event, MC-Tanzania was honored to have Dr. Baraka Nzobo, Assistant Director of Oral Health Services at the Ministry of Health, as Guest of Honor. 

Other esteemed guests included Dr. Jacqueline Mbuya, Arusha Regional Dental Officer, who facilitated a session on Community Linkage and Professional Engagement, Dr. Esther Luhinga, Arusha Urban District Dental Officer, and Mr. Dr. Gabriel Mtafya from Mbeya College of Health and Allied Science, who facilitated a session on Ethics and Professionalism in Dentistry, Mr. Emmanuel Kitoi, Program Coordinator of SKYGEN International Foundation, and Ms. Anna Nnko, FPH Country Director.

Participants receive ongoing mentorship and, after graduation, join an active alumni community for continued support. Fellows also assist in integrating oral health into SKYGEN and FPH’s vision screening outreach, making them ambassadors for oral health across the country. 
Check here the Community Health Fellowship Program Annual Report 2023-2024.