The National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR) has introduced the After the Single Use (ATSU) Tanzania Project, which aims to examine the use of single-use medical devices, particularly plastic-containing devices, and how the waste they generate is managed within health systems.The project’s inception meeting was held on 9 October 2026 at Tanga Beach Resort in Tanga, bringing together health-sector stakeholders, including the Tanga Regional Health Management Team, Council Health Management Teams, department heads from Bombo Regional Referral Hospital, waste management teams and NIMR researchers. Tanga is one of four proposed study locations, alongside Pwani, Dar es Salaam and Dodoma.Speaking at the meeting, the Acting Manager of NIMR’s Amani Medical Research Centre, Dr Patrick Tungu, said the project would examine not only medical plastic waste but also how health systems use resources, protect patients and healthcare workers, and provide sustainable health services.Representing the Tanga Regional Medical Officer, Dr Gideon Joshua said the increasing use of single-use medical devices was placing additional pressure on healthcare waste management systems. He welcomed the research and affirmed the region’s readiness to collaborate with the research team and facilitate engagement with health facilities and relevant health professionals.During the project presentation, ATSU team lead Dr Peter E. Mangesho, together with Dr Amani Aneli and Dr Andrea Kifyasi, explained that the research would examine devices such as syringes, gloves and rapid diagnostic tests, from procurement and storage to use and disposal.The study will use interviews, observations of routine activities in health facilities and waste audits to understand the practices, decisions and challenges that shape how these devices are used and managed.During group discussions, participants identified devices to be prioritised in the study and discussed challenges related to infection prevention, the cost of medical devices and waste management. They also proposed further investigation into healthcare workers’ practices, community experiences, policy gaps and possible alternatives.The ATSU Tanzania Project is expected to generate evidence on the use and management of single-use medical devices and the waste they produce. The findings will inform discussions on more sustainable healthcare practices and efforts to reduce environmental impacts. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.