TanzMED at Africa Healthtech Summit: Mental Health Screening and Access in Tanzania
Our CEO recently represented TanzMED at the Africa Healthtech Summit in Kigali, participating as a panelist to address the pressing issue of mental health in Tanzania. With a focus on providing accessible mental health screening and breaking down barriers to care, the session highlighted TanzMED’s innovative approach and commitment to supporting mental well-being, particularly among the youth. Here’s an overview of our CEO’s insights on this critical topic.
The State of Mental Health in Tanzania: Challenges and Opportunities for Change
Mental health remains a largely underserved area in Tanzania. Despite the fact that one in four people are likely to experience a mental health issue at some point, significant barriers prevent many from accessing care. Tanzania has only 0.07 psychiatrists and 0.01 psychologists per 100,000 people, a stark contrast to the demand for mental health support among a population of 68 million, with 75% under the age of 35. Unfortunately, stigma and limited resources leave many conditions unaddressed, often until they become severe.
Our CEO discussed the vital need for a shift from a treatment-centered to a preventive approach, noting that while institutions like the Mirembe National Mental Health Hospital were historically associated with treating severe cases, the government is now embracing prevention-focused strategies. Plans to rename Mirembe underscore this shift, aiming to transform how mental health support is perceived and accessed.
TanzMED’s Approach: Accessible Screening and Care for All
At TanzMED, we believe early detection and accessible care are crucial in addressing mental health challenges. Our CEO shared TanzMED’s commitment to removing stigma and improving access through technology. Our app provides users with AI-powered mental health screenings for conditions like depression and anxiety. This tool was developed in collaboration with experts from Mirembe Hospital and leverages both AI and Tanzania’s Ministry of Health’s assessment protocols to offer accurate, user-friendly evaluations.
Since launching, this AI-powered screening has become TanzMED’s most popular feature, used by more than 6,000 people each month from Tanzania, Kenya, and Congo DRC. The tool allows users to privately assess their mental health, fostering a supportive environment where they feel safe seeking help. This, in turn, promotes early intervention, especially for those who may not otherwise seek support.
Expanding Access Through Partnerships and Community Health Workers
Beyond screenings, TanzMED connects users to licensed mental health professionals through telemedicine, bridging the gap between assessments and comprehensive care. Our CEO highlighted TanzMED’s partnership with the USAID Youth Captain Project, which provides free 15-minute post-assessment consultations for young people in Tanzania. The initiative aims to reach 200,000 youth in the first year, giving them direct access to mental health support.
Additionally, TanzMED collaborates with Community Health Workers (CHWs), offering essential guidance in rural areas. Through training, these CHWs help individuals, especially young people, to monitor their mental health and receive ongoing support. Our CEO emphasized that this on-the-ground approach makes mental health care accessible to populations that might otherwise have limited access to professional help.
Youth-Focused, Youth-Inclusive Solutions
Our CEO shared how TanzMED involves youth in designing mental health solutions. With 92% of our users aged under 35, we actively include young people in creating tools that are relevant and effective. Features like a mood tracker, CBT-based activities, and educational articles empower users to manage their mental health proactively.
Building a Mentally Resilient Future for Tanzania
At TanzMED, we’re dedicated to driving positive change in Tanzania’s mental health landscape. Our CEO’s discussion at the Africa Healthtech Summit underscored TanzMED’s role in pioneering accessible, stigma-free mental health solutions and highlighted our commitment to early detection and community-based support. By aligning with Tanzania’s shift towards preventive mental health care, TanzMED is helping shape a future where every individual can access the mental health support they need.
The Africa Healthtech Summit provided an incredible platform for TanzMED to share its journey and impact. We’re honored to contribute to advancing mental health access in Tanzania and beyond, helping communities build resilience and foster well-being for all.