Fighting Tuberculosis: Minister says 26,924 cases recorded in 2025, calls for stronger national mobilisation.

According to the member of government, these alarming figures underscore the persistent burden of the disease despite ongoing response efforts. 

Commemorated under the theme: “Yes! We can end TB”, authorities are intensifying national mobilisation to curb the spread of the disease, which remains a major public health concern. According to the minister, TB incidence rate stands at 132 new cases per 100,000 inhabitants, translating to an estimated 36,466 expected cases annually. Mortality remains significant, with 17 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants.

Data from the National Tuberculosis Control Programme indicates that children accounted for 9.6% of the reported cases in 2025, while 170 cases involved multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis, a more complex and costly form to treat. 

Encouragingly, community-based interventions contributed to 14.7% of case detection, reflecting growing grassroots involvement in the fight against the disease.

According to information made public by the ministry, progress has also been recorded in tackling TB/HIV co-infection, which has dropped to 15%. Health officials noted that over 98% of co-infected patients are now receiving antiretroviral therapy. 

The prison population has equally been identified as a high-risk group, with 732 cases detected and treated within correctional facilities.

The country’s diagnostic capacity, we gathered, has significantly improved, with a network of 340 microscopy centres, 75 GeneXpert platforms, 56 TB-LAMP devices, 35 TRUENAT units, and two specialised laboratories spread across the country. This expansion has enhanced early detection and reduced delays in treatment initiation.

However, challenges persist. Under-reporting of cases continues to hamper accurate surveillance, while gaps remain in active case finding, contact tracing, and private sector engagement. 

Logistical issues such as equipment maintenance, availability of consumables, and sample transportation also require urgent attention. Despite these hurdles, the government remains optimistic. 

“Yes, we can end tuberculosis by 2035,” the minister affirmed, calling for increased investment, stronger community participation, and sustained international support. He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring free access to TB treatment nationwide.

He equally used the opportunity to task media professionals to play a central role in raising awareness and promoting accurate information, as the country seeks to transform commitments into tangible health outcomes for its population.

The article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3740 of Tuesday March 24, 2026