Theme: Beyond the Operating Room: The Role of the Anaesthesiologist in Critical Care
Dates & Venue: 20th – 22nd May 2026, City Garden Park Hall, Mbeya
Executive Summary
The 10th Annual Scientific Conference is a flagship event for the Society of Anaesthesiologists of Tanzania [SATA]. It provides a dedicated forum for anaesthesiologists and critical care professionals to convene, discuss the selected theme, and advance the specialty. The conference featured scientific sessions, abstract presentations, plenary discussions, and practical workshops.
The conference hosted approximately 200 delegates from across Tanzania, 12 exhibitors, 4 pre-conference workshops, and 10 scientific abstracts. The event was highly appreciated by participants for significantly increasing clinical knowledge, strengthening professional networks, and developing soft skills. Importantly, the conference addressed under-discussed topics in critical care previously and charted a clear way forward for advancing anaesthesia and intensive care services in Tanzania.
Introduction / Background
The Society of Anaesthesiologists of Tanzania [SATA] is a non-governmental professional association of physician anaesthesiologists and non-physician anaesthesia providers. SATA’s core mission is to advance anaesthesia and critical care services in Tanzania through education, advocacy, and research.
The Annual Scientific Conference is SATA’s primary academic event. It brings together physicians, non-physician anaesthetists, residents, and trainees to discuss a selected theme, update knowledge on current international guidelines, and present scientific abstracts. This platform is vital for capacity building, especially for younger researchers and providers working in district and regional hospitals where most anaesthesia in Tanzania is delivered.
Conference Overview
The 10th Annual Scientific Conference was held under the theme _“Beyond the Operating Room: The Role of the Anaesthesiologist in Critical Care”_. The theme highlighted the expanding role of anaesthesiologists beyond surgery into ICUs, emergency care, and patient safety leadership. The event provided a platform for learning, collaboration, networking, and exchange of ideas aimed at improving patient outcomes and strengthening the specialty nationwide.
Scientific Program
Keynote & Plenary Sessions
The scientific program featured keynote lectures and plenary sessions led by national and international experts. Topics covered included:
- Advanced anaesthesia techniques and perioperative medicine
- Critical care management and ICU best practices
- Healthcare systems strengthening for surgical and critical care in low-resource settings Speakers shared current evidence, practical clinical experiences, and future perspectives relevant to Tanzania.
Pre-Conference Workshops
Four hands-on workshops were conducted before the main conference to build practical skills
- Mechanical Ventilation: Hands-on training to improve ICU and operating theatre management of ventilated patients.
- Point of Care Ultrasound [POCUS]: Skills for rapid bedside diagnosis and safer procedural guidance.
- Advanced Cardiac Life Support [ACLS]: Life-saving emergency response skills for cardiac arrest management.
Research Presentations
Research remained a cornerstone of the conference. A total of 10abstracts were presented through oral and poster sessions. The presentations showcased locally relevant research, innovative approaches to patient care in resource-limited settings, and emerging evidence to inform future clinical practice, education, and policy.
Awards & Recognition
Academic excellence was recognized through awards for: Best Abstract Presentation: [Dr Hassan Vuai]
SATA extends sincere gratitude to the faculty, organizing committee, sponsors, exhibitors, and partners whose generous support and commitment contributed significantly to the success of the conference.
Networking & Professional Development
Beyond formal sessions, the conference provided invaluable opportunities for networking, mentorship, and professional engagement. Formal and informal interactions enabled participants to build new relationships, exchange clinical experiences, and strengthen professional networks across hospitals and regions. This collaboration is critical for building a unified anaesthesia community and promoting mentorship for trainees and young researchers.
Conclusions & Recommendations
Conclusion
The 10th Annual Scientific Conference successfully achieved its objectives of knowledge transfer, skills development, and professional unity. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to advancing anaesthesia and critical care practice in Tanzania. The insights, collaborations, and momentum generated will continue to drive improvements in patient safety and clinical outcomes.
Recommendations
Based on discussions and feedback, SATA recommends:
- Expand Skills Workshops: Roll out mechanical ventilation, POCUS, and ACLS training to our zones to build capacity where it is most needed.
- Advocate for Essential Equipment: Strengthen advocacy for pulse oximeters, ventilators, and other critical care equipment in CEmONC centres and ICUs.
- Strengthen Partnerships: Deepen collaboration with the Ministry of Health, WFSA, WHO, and other partners to align with the National Surgical, Obstetric and Anaesthesia Plan [NSOAP].
- Address Under-Discussed Topics: Continue to prioritize critical care, perioperative medicine, and patient safety in future conferences and CME programs.
Conference Photos >>> https://photos.app.goo.gl/jVnPy6an2cgKBMRs5