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Health research has been chronically neglected in Tanzania. The existing public entities dealing with health research (NMRI, TFNC, COSTEC, MUHAS) do not conduct routine data collection nor produce enough evidence. There is a constant need for greater evidence for policy making.
Switzerland is actively engaged in health policy dialogue in Tanzania. SDC was part of the Troïka chair of the Development Partners’ Group for health (2009-2011) and is a core member of three technical working groups (Districts and Regional Health Services, Health Financing, Health Promotion). SDC is currently the Health Basket Coordinator and focal point for all audits of the health sector. In this context, evidence-based information of the sector is fundamental.
The Ifakara Health Institute (IHI) is the best recognized independent health research organization in Tanzania and Southern Africa. As cofounder, Switzerland is associated to IHI’s success and reputation. Since its creation by R. Geigy in 1956, IHI has become an important actor in the Tanzania health sector, focusing its work on the improvement of health delivery systems and generation of evidence for health planning and management. IHI data and evidence is increasingly used in health monitoring and in policy discussions. IHI has a good relationship with the Government of Tanzania and has a strong visibility at key policy fora. The data collected by IHI’s routine monitoring systems (SPD, DSS) is used in all key national events such as annual sector review and specific thematic working groups. IHI has recently developed a range of user friendly products to disseminate research findings and therefore giving access to the public.
IHI’s reputation has grown both within Tanzania and beyond. However, it is recognized that further capacity building is required in order for IHI to develop into a sustainable research institute. Given the potential to provide more and stronger evidence for policy making in Tanzania and globally, there is a strong case for SDC to continue a core funding support for IHI’s new strategy (2013-2018). The need and rationale for further support beyond this period will be assessed during this phase of support.
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