Better health, brighter opportunities for children and youth: Inter-Parliamentary Union Delegations

Arumeru District, Arusha, 6 October 2026 – Delegates from the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), accompanied by the United Nations in Tanzania, visited two transformative programs in Arumeru District to see how integrated investments in health, child wellbeing, and youth economic empowerment are improving lives and advancing sustainable development. The visit was organized as part of the 153rd IPU Assembly taking place in Arusha, Tanzania.

“We are proud to host this visit and showcase how partnerships between government, communities and development partners are delivering tangible results for our people. From quality health services for children and mothers to opportunities for young people in agriculture, these initiatives are helping build a healthier and more prosperous Arumeru,” said honourable Neema Lugangira, Arumeru District Commissioner.

During the visit, the delegation first visited Kiyunga Dispensary in Oloigeruno Village, where they observed integrated primary health care services supported by UNICEF, WHO and partners. Delegates learned how immunization services provide an entry point for a range of child survival and development interventions, including birth registration, growth monitoring and nutrition assessments. The visit also showcased the Government of Tanzania Hospital Management Information System (GoTHOMIS) in strengthening health service delivery and data management.

The delegation then visited the Vijana Kilimo Biashara (VKB) irrigation project in Ilkiding’a Ward, where young farmers benefit from improved irrigation infrastructure, agricultural training, financial literacy, and better access to markets. Supported by WFP with funding from the Mastercard Foundation and implemented by the Tanzania Horticultural Association (TAHA), the initiative is helping create employment opportunities and strengthen food systems through youth-led agribusiness.

“This visit demonstrates how the United Nations works as one to support national priorities and improve lives at the community level. By investing in health, nutrition, youth employment and resilience, we are helping ensure that no one is left behind,”  said Susan Ngongi Namondo, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Tanzania.

Speaking on behalf of the delegation Ms. Valentina Centeno Arteaga (Equador) who is also the chairperson of the IPU Standing Committee on United Nations  said;  “Seeing these programs firsthand has been inspiring. The progress achieved through collaboration between government, communities and development partners demonstrates the impact of investing in people, particularly children and young people, to create sustainable development outcomes.”

The visit allowed delegates to engage directly with health workers, mothers, young farmers, and community members, gaining firsthand insights into the impact of integrated development programs and the importance of partnerships in accelerating progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals.