DAR ES SALAAM: Governments of African countries, health experts, and development partners have once again called for urgent action to combat adolescent pregnancy, adolescent HIV infections, and high dropout rates from schools, warning that these issues continue to undermine the health and future prospects of millions of young people across the continent.
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The initiative was launched during the opening of the Conference on Adolescent Health for Sub-Saharan Africa in Dar es Salaam on June 23, 2026, where participants are developing strategies to improve youth health indicators and accelerate the achievement of sustainable development goals.
In his welcoming remarks, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Seif Shekalage, noted that the forum is an important platform for sharing experiences, strengthening research, and disseminating data-driven solutions concerning adolescent health challenges on the continent. He emphasized that despite progress in expanding access to health services, significant gaps remain in combating adolescent pregnancy, youth HIV infection, and many other factors hindering school completion.
There is a need to increase funding for programs aimed at protecting the mental health of minors, preventing HIV-related diseases, improving nutrition, and combating gender-based violence and child abuse. To achieve a sustainable impact, youth must become key participants in both the development of national strategies and their implementation.
Development is impossible without creating platforms where young people can participate in diagnosing problems and developing solutions that affect their lives. «We need to strengthen intersectoral partnerships and leadership qualities to pool resources and translate scientific data into viable projects that improve the quality of life at the local community level», stated Dr. Seif Shekalage, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health.
The forum takes place at a time when many African countries are intensifying efforts to improve healthcare in the areas of reproductive, maternal, and adolescent health, recognizing the socio-economic risks associated with unsatisfactory youth health indicators. Shekalage also noted Tanzania’s growing influence in promoting health programs on the continent, highlighting the role of Head of State Samia Suluhu Hassan, the African Union’s coordinator for maternal, infant, and adolescent health, as well as sexual and reproductive health and rights.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s international recognition through the Global Goalkeeper Award from the Gates Foundation underscores Tanzania’s commitment to strengthening healthcare systems and improving the lives of its citizens. Health professionals attending the conference noted that addressing adolescent health challenges requires coordinated efforts involving governments, educational institutions, communities, civil society organizations, and development partners.
Investments in adolescent health not only enhance individual well-being but also contribute to economic growth, social stability, and human potential development. Through the Ministry of Health and in collaboration with development agencies, Tanzania continues to expand initiatives aimed at improving the health and well-being of women, youth and adolescents, as these efforts.