IRELAND has reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with Tanzania to promote sustainable development through impactful community projects.

Neale Richmond, Ireland's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade responsible for international cooperation, development, and diaspora, made the statement during his official visit to Tanga Region, where he inspected several Irish-funded development projects.

Richmond toured the Dairy Benefit Project, implemented by the Tanzania Livestock Research Institute (TALIRI), which aims to boost milk production, add value to dairy products, and increase farmers' incomes. He emphasised the importance of using high-quality fodder seeds to reduce conflicts between farmers and pastoralists and improve livelihoods.

He also visited a health centre funded by the Benjamin Mkapa Foundation in collaboration with Amref Health Africa. Richmond commended the progress in improving healthcare services, particularly in maternal and child health, and stressed the importance of sustained investments in healthcare infrastructure.

“We are pleased to continue supporting this program and will work with the government of Tanzania and other partners to ensure its sustainability,” said Richmond.

During the visit, Richmond engaged with leaders from Amref, the Benjamin Mkapa Foundation, Femina, and Uzikwasa, as well as community groups implementing development projects. He expressed Ireland’s satisfaction with a training programme for community health workers and pledged continued funding to strengthen healthcare services and reduce maternal and child mortality.

Dr Helen Senkoro, executive director of the Benjamin Mkapa Foundation, highlighted that the programme aligns with national healthcare strategies. She noted that Ireland has been a key partner for over a decade, providing approximately 21bn/- in funding to strengthen healthcare services.

“Our collaboration with Ireland has enabled us to recruit 450 health workers across the country, improving healthcare delivery at both national and community levels,” said Dr Senkoro.

John Sagaika, Public Health Education Coordinator for Tanga Region, thanked the Irish embassy for facilitating the training of 440 community health workers, who completed a six-month programme.

Richmond affirmed Ireland’s continued support for Tanzania’s development goals, emphasising the shared commitment to sustainable progress and improved community well-being.