In demonstration of leadership in global health research, the National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR) conducted a five-day Arboviral Workshop at NIMR Mbeya Medical Research Centre under the project “Arboviral diseases in Brazil, Italy and Tanzania: towards a comprehensive One Health strategy for the virological, epidemiological, entomological and immunological profiling (ArbOne),” founded by the Centre for International Health (CIH-LMU). The workshop brought together experts and scientists from Tanzania and abroad to strengthen preparedness and response to arboviral diseases through One Health approach.
The workshop which was officially opened on 6th October 2025, was jointly organized by NIMR, the University of Ferrara (Italy), and the University of Espírito Santo (Brazil), with CIH-LMU as the founding partner. During the opening session, Mr. Sudi Lwitiho who represented the Centre Manager expressed commitment to fostering impactful scientific collaboration and advancing NIMR research agenda in line with global health priorities.
Experts including Prof. Rachel Vicente and Dr. Luciana Stanzani presented on the epidemiology and ecology of flaviviruses, highlighting an integrated perspective connecting human, animal, and environmental health. The discussions emphasized on the critical importance of cross-sector collaboration in addressing emerging and re-emerging arboviral infections.
Led by Dr. Mkunde Chachage, the Principal Investigator and Adjunct Research Fellow of NIMR with Dr. Wilbert Mbuya as co-Investigator, the initiative aims to enhance research capacity, promote scientific collaboration and strengthen public health systems both in Tanzania and globally.
Through initiatives like ArbOne, NIMR continues to demonstrate commitment to advancing health research, fostering innovation, and contributing practical solutions to global health challenges.