A seasoned researcher at the Ifakara Health Institute, Dr. Ester Elisaria, has highlighted the growing contribution of women in health research and decision-making in Tanzania, noting that their work is playing a critical role in shaping medicines, vaccines, and health policies.

Speaking during a special International Women's Day program on Azam TV on Sunday morning, Dr. Elisaria discussed gender equality in the health sector and shared milestones achieved by women scientists at the Ifakara Health Institute as the organization marks 70 years of impact in health research.

Women’s role in shaping health solutions

Dr. Elisaria explained that health research forms the backbone of modern healthcare, providing the scientific evidence used to develop medicines, vaccines, and national health policies.

“Behind many of the medical breakthroughs we rely on today are years of research,” she said, noting that women researchers are increasingly playing a central role in generating that knowledge.

At the Ifakara Health Institute, women have made significant contributions to scientific publications that guide public health interventions both in Tanzania and internationally.

Strong presence in scientific publications

Dr. Elisaria said, women researchers have contributed to about half of the institute’s scientific publications. “As Ifakara celebrates 70 years this year, records show that women researchers have contributed to more than 900 out of 1,800 scientific publications produced by the institute,” she said.

These publications provide critical evidence used by governments and global health partners to guide the development of medicines, vaccines, and health policies.

Progress in gender representation

Beyond research output, the institute has also made progress in improving gender representation in its workforce. Women currently make up 41 percent of employees, many of whom are actively involved in research activities across the institute’s programs.

Dr. Elisaria said this progress reflects broader efforts to ensure women have opportunities to participate fully in science and innovation.

Growing voice in leadership and decision-making

Women are also increasingly represented in leadership and governance roles at the institute.

Currently, 31 percent of positions in governance and senior leadership, including the board and top management, are held by women.

While acknowledging that more progress is still needed, Dr. Elisaria said the trend shows that women are steadily gaining influence in shaping research priorities and institutional decisions.

Looking ahead

As the Ifakara Health Institute celebrates seven decades of scientific contribution, Dr. Elisaria emphasized the importance of continuing to support women in science, encouraging young women and girls to pursue careers in science and research.

She added, empowering women researchers strengthens health systems and ultimately improves lives. “When women are part of research and decision-making, the solutions we develop become more inclusive and better suited to the needs of communities.”