18 September 2025 – Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. In a major step toward reducing maternal and newborn mortality, UNFPA, in partnership with the Government of Tanzania and the Government of Canada, today handed over job aids, working tools, to Community Health Workers and two vehicles to implementing partners—TAMA and AMREF—under the Thamini Uzazi Salama / Strengthening Midwifery in Tanzania (SMIT) Project.
Community Health Workers (CHWs) are the trusted link between families and the health system. The tools provided will enable them to deliver accurate information, timely referrals, and compassionate care—especially in underserved and hard-to-reach communities.
“This handover is not simply about equipment or vehicles; it is about strengthening the very foundation of our health system,” said Hon. Edward Mpogolo Ilala District Commissioner “When frontline health workers are empowered, we move closer to a Tanzania where no woman dies giving life.”
Funded by a CAD $11.75 million investment from the Government of Canada, the SMIT project is already showing impact—improving midwifery training, empowering CHWs, and contributing to early reductions in preventable maternal and newborn deaths.
Her Excellency Emily Burns, High Commissioner of Canada to Tanzania, noted: “Canada is proud to partner in this effort. Together, we are investing in a future where every woman has access to skilled care, every child has the chance to thrive, and every community is healthier and more resilient.
The two project vehicles will support supervision, coordination, and outreach to ensure that no community is left behind. The initiative also reflects progress toward global and national goals, including SDG 3 and Tanzania Vision 2050, by strengthening the health system from the ground up.
Mark Bryan Schreiner, UNFPA Representative, United Republic of Tanzania, added: “This is a milestone that shows what’s possible when we invest in people. Together, we’re building a resilient health system where every birth is safe and every mother has access to quality care.”
Today’s event highlights not only resources, but results. Midwives are now better trained and supported. Communities are more informed. Harmful gender norms are being challenged. And men are increasingly involved in maternal health. These gains are made possible through strong collaboration, aligned investments, and shared commitment.
Among the beneficiaries is Upendo Emmanuel, a CHW in Dar es Salaam, who shared:
“With these tools, I feel respected and more confident. I can now reach more mothers and give them the care they deserve.”
The Thamini Uzazi Salama / SMIT Project is a seven-year initiative led by UNFPA, Amref Health Africa in Canada, and the Canadian Association of Midwives, focusing on improving the skills of the midwifery workforce that would, in turn, improve the maternal and newborn health outcomes across the four district councils (Shinyanga, Ushetu, Kahama, and Kishapu) in Shinyanga and three municipal councils(Temeke, Kinondoni, and Ilala) in Dar es Salaam.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Dr. Warren Bright,
UNFPA Communications Analyst,
United Republic of Tanzania
Phone: +255 764 43 44 45
Email: bwarren@unfpa.org
