Health for sustainable economic development in Tanzania
Author: Victor Champoa Mavare, Organizing Team Member of UNLEASH Hack Tanzania
UNLEASH Hack Tanzania, focused on health for sustainable economic development, happened on September 7 and 9, 2024, in Dar es Salaam. It brought together 13 innovative thinkers who used the UNLEASH Innovation Methodology, based on human-centered design principles, to develop pioneering solutions to enhance health and sustainability in the region.
One of the solutions that stood out from the program was a comprehensive water management system designed to address water scarcity. This innovative approach involves harvesting rainwater and constructing dams to capture it. The water is channeled through a network of pipes to filtration tanks, where it is purified using solar-powered technology. This eco-friendly system not only ensures a reliable and clean water supply but also promotes environmental sustainability by integrating renewable energy.
Another significant solution from the Hack was the creation of Oasis Hub, a project focused on tackling mental health stigma in underserved Tanzanian communities. Recognizing barriers such as lack of awareness and cultural sensitivities, Oasis Hub aims to provide safe, supportive spaces for mental health care. Targeting students, young professionals, and low-income individuals, the initiative offers workshops, group sessions, and one-on-one counselling. By collaborating with local hospitals and mental health experts, Oasis Hub delivers culturally relevant, professional support in a judgment-free environment, fostering improved mental health awareness and accessibility.
Additionally, the “Mama Yangu Program” was developed to support mothers experiencing post-partum depression. This initiative will establish local support groups, seminars, and training sessions led by experienced mothers and health professionals. Integrated with local healthcare facilities, the program also features a web-based platform and mobile app to extend support and resources to new mothers, addressing post-partum challenges through both community-based and digital means.
UNLEASH Hack Tanzania demonstrated a robust commitment to advancing health and sustainability through innovative solutions, significantly impacting water management, mental health, and maternal care in the region.
