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The 9th Annual Africa Interdisciplinary Health Conference (AfIHC) 2026 was officially opened on 19th August 2026 at the PSSSF Conference Hall, Millennium Tower II, Kijitonyama, Dar es Salaam, bringing together 164 delegates from 18 countries to advance dialogue, research and collaboration in addressing Africa’s health challenges. The conference, jointly organized by Mzumbe University and Push Aid Africa (PAAF) in partnership with the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), USA, is held under the theme, “Bridging Disciplines to Address the Dual Burden of Infectious and Non-Communicable Diseases in Africa.” Speaking during the officiating ceremony, the Guest of Honour and Mzumbe University Deputy Vice Chancellor–Academic, Research and Consultancy, Prof. Hawa Tundui Petro on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, emphasizing the importance of strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration, research capacity, mentorship and partnerships to address Africa’s complex health challenges. She described AfIHC as an important platform for knowledge exchange, research dissemination, innovation and professional development, while encouraging greater investment in emerging researchers and young professionals. Dean, School of Public Administration and Management and AfIHC Co-Chair, Prof. Idda Lyatonga Swai underscored the need for collective action across disciplines to develop evidence-based and sustainable health solutions. AfIHC Secretary General and Co-Chair, Prof. Jerry John Ouner, similarly emphasized stronger partnerships among researchers, health professionals, policymakers, academicians, students and innovators, urging participants to transform research evidence and knowledge into practical action. Other distinguished speakers, including Prof. Stella Bialous, Associate Professor at UCSF School of Nursing, and Dr. Geoffrey Anguyo, Board Member of PAAF and Executive Director of Kigezi Health Care Foundation, Uganda, echoed the importance of collaboration, research and knowledge sharing in addressing Africa’s health challenges. Prof. Bialous urged researchers to publish and share evidence generated in Africa, while Dr. Anguyo emphasized cross-disciplinary partnerships for better health outcomes. The conference provides a vital platform for strengthening research networks, sharing innovations and translating evidence into policy and practice. Through sustained interdisciplinary collaboration, AfIHC 2026 seeks to contribute to practical, context-responsive and sustainable solutions for improving health outcomes across Africa.