On July 14, 2025, the Ifakara Health Institute hosted a high-level delegation from the Zanzibar Ministry of Health during a strategic learning visit organized under the NEST360 program. The visit, held in Dar es Salaam, was led by Najma Abdallah Ally, Principal Secretary from the Ministry of Health Zanzibar.

The visit objective was to explore effective strategies for reducing maternal and newborn mortality in Zanzibar by learning from innovations in mainland Tanzania.

Strengthening maternal and newborn health systems

In his welcoming remarks, Dr. Ally Olotu, Ifakara’s Director of Science, provided an overview of the Institute’s mission to improve health and well-being through research, innovation, and partnerships. He emphasized Ifakara’s longstanding commitment to maternal, newborn, and child health, and how collaboration is central to the Institute’s approach to addressing complex health challenges.

Sharing the NEST360 approach

The NEST360 team, led by Dr. Jennie Jaribu, presented the program’s work in transforming maternal and neonatal care across the country. Dr. Jaribu highlighted NEST360’s integrated model, which provides essential newborn care technologies, trains health workers, strengthens data systems, and improves overall facility readiness. The team also shared progress made in reducing preventable newborn deaths and enhancing the quality of care in supported facilities.

Learning in action

Following the presentations, the delegation toured Mwananyamala Regional Referral Hospital, one of NEST360’s implementation sites in Dar es Salaam. There, the officials observed how maternal and newborn care practices are applied in real-time, and engaged directly with healthcare providers using NEST360’s tools and systems.

The visit gave the Zanzibar team a firsthand look at how investments in technology, training, and systems development can translate into lifesaving outcomes. It also opened discussions on how similar models might be adapted and implemented in Zanzibar’s healthcare system.

The delegation expressed their appreciation for the warm reception and expertise shared by the Ifakara team. They acknowledged the potential for adopting NEST360 innovations in Zanzibar and commended Ifakara for its role in advancing healthcare across Tanzania.