Tanzania is set to strengthen its leadership in the global primary health care agenda as it hosts the Second International Primary Health Care Conference (IPHCC 2026) in Arusha from September 9–11, 2026.

The conference, organised by Tanzania, will bring together more than 2,500 participants from across the world, including government leaders, health experts, researchers, international organisations, academic institutions and development partners, to discuss strategies for strengthening primary health care systems and accelerating progress towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

As the host and organiser of the Second International Primary Health Care Conference, Tanzania will use the platform to showcase its progress, share experiences and provide leadership in advancing sustainable and people-centred health systems in Africa and beyond.

The conference will focus on the theme: “Towards Universal Health Coverage: Strengthening Sustainable Health Financing, Efficiency and Quality Improvement within Primary Health Care,” highlighting the importance of sustainable financing, efficiency and quality improvement in delivering accessible health services.

Speaking on preparations for the conference, the Director of Health, Nutrition and Social Welfare Services at the Prime Minister’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG), Dr. Rashid Mfaume, said the meeting will provide an important platform for exchanging experiences, innovations and research findings aimed at strengthening primary health care systems.

He said primary health care remains the foundation of effective health systems, serving as the first point of contact where communities access preventive services, early diagnosis, basic treatment and health education.

Meanwhile, Dr. Pius Kamana said the conference will discuss key health priorities, including youth health, nutrition, One Health, traditional medicine, social welfare, health diplomacy and health security.

He added that the conference will promote scientific exchange, with more than 400 research papers expected to be presented by experts from different parts of the world.

The conference comes at a time when Tanzania continues to invest in strengthening primary health care through expansion of health facilities, improving access to medicines and medical supplies, and enhancing the capacity of health workers.

Globally, primary health care is recognised as a critical foundation for achieving Universal Health Coverage and the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal Three, which focuses on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all.

Beyond health discussions, the Second International Primary Health Care Conference is expected to enhance Tanzania’s global health diplomacy, promote conference tourism and strengthen partnerships among countries and health stakeholders.

By hosting this international gathering, Tanzania aims to demonstrate its commitment to leading conversations that shape the future of primary health care and contribute to the global pursuit of health for all.