The Swiss government has re-affirmed its commitment to continue supporting Ifakara Health Institute and the Tanzanian government, particularly in research work that promotes the health and wellbeing of people.

Prof. Didier Chassot, the Swiss Ambassador to Tanzania sounded the commitment during the inauguration ceremony for a new Ifakara office building in Kingani, Bagamoyo. Prof. Didier presided over the building's official opening alongside the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health Seif Shekalaghe.

In his speech, the Ambassador expressed enormous pride in the Swiss government's involvement and contribution to Ifakara over the years since its inception in 1956.

“Today the IHI has managed to build its institutional capacity and sustainability and it has become an internationally renowned center of excellence in health research. The government of Switzerland is proud to have contributed to this success already. It is thrilled to be part of this major endeavor and achievements and we very much look forward to continuing this excellent cooperation.”

Since Dr. Rudolf Geigy, a Swiss zoologist, founded Ifakara in 1956, there has been a close relationship between Ifakara, the Swiss government and Swiss academic institutions such as Swiss TPH. All parties involved, including the Tanzanian government, have since maintained a close working relationship.

The newly opened building will accommodate all staff who are currently stationed in Bagamoyo, including Ifakara research scientists. Up until recently, the staff were accommodated in their old offices on the Indian Ocean shores – just behind the Bagamoyo District Hospital.