The momentum for mental health transformation in Tanzania has officially begun.
Today marked the powerful opening of the Tanzania Mental Health Summit 2025, held in Kahama, Shinyanga Region, and hosted by WAYDS Tanzania in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, National Mental Health Hospital, and a consortium of esteemed local and international partners.
The day began with the arrival and registration of over 300 delegates—mental health professionals, policymakers, youth leaders, development partners, and community organizations from across all regions of Tanzania and beyond. Excitement filled the air as attendees checked in, networked, and shared a unified vision for mental wellness.
The official opening ceremony was led by Hon. Mboni Mhita, Kahama District Commissioner, representing the Guest of Honour – Minister of Health, Hon. Jenista Mhagama. Her address set a compelling tone for the Summit, emphasizing the urgent need for cross-sectoral collaboration and inclusive national investment in mental health.
“This summit is a powerful signal that Tanzania is ready to prioritize mental wellness as a foundation for development,” she said.
WAYDS Founder and Summit Coordinator Mr. Charles Deogratius echoed this call to action, urging all stakeholders—youth, health professionals, political leaders, and development partners—to unite in designing sustainable solutions.
“Healthy minds build prosperous nations. This is our moment to reimagine mental health in Tanzania,” he declared passionately.
Throughout the day, partner organizations including the Embassy of Sweden, Foundation Botnar, WHO, UNFPA, Doctors with Africa (CUAMM), Vitol Foundation, and others, expressed their unwavering commitment to advancing mental health initiatives in Tanzania.
The vibrant enthusiasm from partners was clear—mental wellness is not a side issue, it is central to sustainable development.
Representatives showcased their support through keynote statements, exhibits, and pledges to strengthen ongoing mental health programs across the country.
The Regional Medical Officer of Shinyanga delivered a rousing speech, calling on communities to embrace mental health as a collective priority:
“Tunapozungumza afya ya akili, tunazungumza ustawi wa jamii. Afya ya akili inagusa kila familia, kila kaya, na kila mtu.”
(“When we speak of mental health, we speak of community wellbeing. It touches every family, every household, every individual.”)
Delegates expressed excitement about the opportunity to network, co-create, and drive change through this inclusive platform.
