OVER 300 delegates from 35 countries within and outside African continent are expected to attend the International Federation of Medical Students Association (IFMSA) scheduled to take place later this month in Arusha.

Tanzania Medical Students Association (TAMSA) President Francis Tegete told reporters in Dar es Salaam yesterday that the meeting will start from December 18 - 22, this year. It will be preceded by a preparatory meeting for medical students Association from December 14-16.

He pointed out the theme of the event as 'Health Crisis in Africa' which will focus on human resources for health, health facilities and health policies, adding that the Minister for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Hussein Mwinyi is expected to grace the event.

'It is an international annual meeting which gather youth and medical students from National Member Organizations of African countries to International Federation of Medical students Association.

He said the meeting aimed, among others, to create a network for medical students from Africa and outside of Africa to focus on social and health related issues and development, to discuss problems/solutions for social and health issues facing Africa health care systems and to promote exchange programmes to medical students in clinical and research areas.

Mr Tegete said the Africa Regional meeting will explore the challenges and setbacks that make poor progress in healthcare systems and aspire to create resolutions and recommendations based upon the expertise of academics and professionals as well as aspiring physicians from across Africa.

"This meeting will provide opportunities to exchange ideas and build relationships for medical students and future leaders which is essential for tackling health problems in our community", said TAMSA president.

Among the countries expected to participate in the meeting include Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, Sudan, Sierra Leone, Nigeria, Ghana, Namibia, Rwanda, Burundi, DRC Congo, Zambia, Germany, United Kingdom, USA and South Korea.