Samia Suluhu Hassan has been appointed African Union Champion for reproductive, maternal and child health, a continental role recognizing Tanzania’s reforms in the health sector.

The appointment was endorsed at the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union in Addis Ababa, following recommendations in the 2025 report of the Committee of Heads of State and Government overseeing the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.

The one-year mandate places Tanzania at the forefront of advancing maternal and child health priorities across the continent.

In this capacity, President Samia will lead efforts to strengthen coordination and joint action among AU member states to improve reproductive, maternal and child health outcomes.

A central focus of her tenure will be mobilizing increased and sustainable domestic investment in health systems, recognizing that quality maternal and child healthcare is fundamental to social and economic development and integral to achieving Africa’s Agenda 2063.

She is expected to champion high-level political leadership to drive the design, implementation and monitoring of policies and programmes related to sexual and reproductive health and rights, while ensuring that continental and global commitments translate into measurable national outcomes.

Her role will also emphasize peer learning and accountability among member states through regular progress reviews and the sharing of best practices.

By encouraging stronger collaboration among governments, development partners, the private sector and civil society, President Samia aims to accelerate reductions in maternal and child mortality and expand access to reproductive health services, particularly for women, youth and girls.

The appointment shows Tanzania’s commitment to strengthening resilient health systems and advancing the right of every woman and child in Africa to quality healthcare.