KIGOMA: KIGOMA Region has intensified precautionary measures and emergency preparedness to prevent outbreaks of infectious diseases, including Ebola and other similar illnesses, following disease threats reported in neighboring countries.
The announcement was made by the Kigoma Regional Medical Officer, Dr Damas Kayera, during an interview with experts from Tanzania’s Ministry of Health on July 21, 2026. The interview took place alongside an ongoing capacity-building program for religious leaders, traditional elders, journalists, and community influencers aimed at strengthening public awareness and outbreak preparedness.
Dr Kayera said that because Kigoma is one of Tanzania’s border regions, regional authorities began implementing preventive measures immediately after receiving reports of a potential Ebola outbreak in a neighboring country.
“As one of Tanzania’s border regions, Kigoma has taken critical precautionary measures since receiving information about the Ebola threat in a neighboring country. Healthcare workers at every level—from dispensaries and health centers to hospitals—have been trained and equipped with the knowledge needed to respond effectively to the disease,” Dr Kayera said.
He added that the regional government has strengthened collaboration with several government institutions, including the Immigration Department, to enhance disease surveillance and control at all official border entry and exit points.
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According to Dr Kayera, health personnel stationed at border posts have been equipped with specialized screening tools to assess travelers entering the country. Any traveler showing symptoms consistent with Ebola or another epidemic-prone disease is immediately placed under close observation and undergoes further medical assessment in accordance with national public health guidelines.
Meanwhile, Kigoma Regional Public Health Education Coordinator Abedi Michael said the region has continued expanding its outbreak preparedness efforts. To date, more than 300 healthcare professionals from various health facilities have received specialized training in the prevention and control of epidemic diseases.
In addition, more than 280 community health workers have been trained to educate the public about Ebola prevention and response. Health education posters and informational leaflets have also been distributed across the region to raise public awareness of Ebola symptoms, transmission risks, and preventive measures.
These interventions form part of the Tanzanian government’s broader strategy to strengthen preparedness in border regions by improving the prevention, early detection, and rapid containment of infectious disease outbreaks before they spread within communities.