The SickleCare Initiative
SickleCare is a community-centered health program by Melian Foundation that integrates early detection, capacity building, and access to essential services to reduce the burden of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) in Tanzania. The project is being piloted in Tabora and designed for national scalability.
- Newborn screening and early diagnosis programs
- Training health providers in SCD diagnosis and management
- Community awareness and stigma reduction campaigns
- Public-private partnerships with national health stakeholders
Watch how SickleCare is transforming lives in Tabora, Tanzania.
World Sickle Cell Day
“Global Action, Local Impact: Empowering Communities for Effective Self‑Advocacy.”
World Sickle Cell Awareness Day is held annually on June 19 to increase public knowledge and raise awareness of blood diseases. Officially adopted by the United Nations, this day calls on countries and health organizations to strengthen their response to sickle cell disease (SCD) and other genetic blood disorders.
Key Facts:
- Sickle cell anaemia affects millions around the world.
- Sickle cell anaemia is hereditary, not contagious.
- There is no definitive cure, but pre-marital screening can help prevent it.
- Sickle cell anaemia is different from iron deficiency anaemia.
- People with sickle cell trait often show no symptoms.
Objectives of World Sickle Cell Day:
- Increase awareness of the global burden of SCD.
- Urge health institutions to develop national programs and specialized centres for SCD.
- Raise awareness about pre-marital screening to reduce transmission.
- Promote and support research to improve quality of life for those affected.
Target Groups:
- Sickle cell anaemia patients and their families
- Those planning to get married
- Health workers (physicians, nurses, educators)
- Health decision-makers, associations, and organizations
Why Your Support Matters
By supporting Melian Foundation, you join a movement that empowers communities, expands health access, and strengthens livelihoods for vulnerable populations across Tanzania. Every contribution drives sustainable impact.
Empower Community-Led Solutions
Your involvement supports the training of Community Health Workers, youth, and women, allowing them to lead health, education, and livelihood initiatives within their own communities.
Strengthen National Health and Development Goals
Melian Foundation’s programs align with national policies and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Your partnership helps expand reach and ensure that no one is left behind—especially in underserved and rural areas.
Be a Catalyst for Inclusive Growth
Whether you are a donor, development partner, or volunteer, your contribution advances equity, promotes dignity, and helps communities become self-reliant through education, healthcare, and economic opportunity.
07 March
SickleCare Project Launch
Official launch of the SickleCare Project in Tabora in partnership with the Ministry of Health, PO-RALG, and Tabora Regional Administration. The project focuses on sickle cell awareness, newborn screening, and improving access to treatment.
Tabora Regional Office, Tanzania
10 March
Health Provider Training – SCD Care
Capacity-building workshop for 36 healthcare workers to enhance skills in diagnosing and managing sickle cell disease. Conducted in collaboration with regional health training institutions.
Tabora Health Training Centre
18 March
Community Awareness Drive – Sickle Cell
An awareness campaign in Urambo District to educate communities about symptoms, early diagnosis, and care for sickle cell disease. The event included mobile testing and educational sessions.
Urambo District, Tabora
25 March
Newborn Screening Kit Distribution
Deployment of sickle cell screening kits to selected hospitals across Tabora Region to support early detection and case registration for newborns at risk of SCD.
Various Health Facilities – Tabora