Tanzania Society of Human Genetics (TSHG) is a non-profitable organization that was conceptualized in the year 2017 and officially launched in November, 2019 with the aim of conducting and coordinating human genetics research, training, diagnosis and advocacy in Tanzania and to engage with similar partners across the globe. The society was formed with the goal of coordinating human genetics research and activities in Tanzania in order to generate knowledge and recommendations for the  prevention of genetic diseases and promotion of health.

Main aims

• Expanding research in human genetics/genomics and establishing a network of scientists working on human genetics and related disciplines in Tanzania
• Integrating the work of the Tanzanian Society of Human Genetics with the activities of other related societies and networks with similar vision
• Increasing avenues of research collaboration and promoting training in human genetics
• Increasing awareness of human genetics and genomic research and promoting the development of effective public policy in Tanzania
• Promoting the translation of genetic knowledge into clinical practice throughout Tanzania
• Promoting access to relevant genomic technologies and ethical conducts in human genetics research in Tanzania
• To establish collaborations with sister African genetic institutions for subsequent training of Tanzanian researchers and clinical geneticists in the promotion of control and management of different genetic conditions
• Enhance national, regional and international collaborations for early detection, prevention and management of genetic diseases affecting all organ systems of the human body
• Advocating and supporting the establishment of centers of excellence in human genomic sciences

Main plans for 2020

For the first time, Tanzania through TSHG will be hosting the African society of Human Genetics (AfSHG) congress that will be held from 6^th to 11^th September 2020 Dar es salaam. This is our main activity for 2020. However, we also plan to conduct the following activities:

a) Research

• Writing a proposal for studying Tanzanian human genetic variation and microbiome
• Potential collaboration with the national cancer research institute on oncogenetics projects

b) Training

• Training and workshops on human genetics and genomics as well as relevant scientific areas such as open science and scientific communication

b) Advocacy

• To increase awareness of human genetics and its implications on human health such as genetic diseases, their management and therapies
• Writing and publishing relevant content in both English and Kiswahili
• Increased engagement with the general public through the society’s social media platforms, website and other partners

Along with these, other plans include recruiting more members in the society and increase public awareness on the concept of genetics by attending different events of health awareness and giving speeches.