Zimbabwe Reiterates Commitment to Ending TB Burden.
- 365healthdiaries
- Mar 24
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 28
By Hamu Madzedze in Mahusekwa
Online Health Editor-Zimbabwe
The Government of Zimbabwe has reaffirmed its dedication to addressing the Tuberculosis (TB) burden through innovative solutions, high-quality services, and early detection.
This commitment was reiterated by Dr Owen Mugurungi, Director of HIV and TB in the Ministry of Health and Child Care, during the World TB Day commemorations held in Mahusekwa, Mashonaland East Province.
Dr Mugurungi said that TB is a preventable disease, and there is a need to continuously commit ourselves as a nation to end TB.
"We must commit ourselves from a political perspective to ensure we have the necessary resources, policies, and tools to fight TB" said Dr Mugurungi.
He highlighted the importance of innovative solutions, such as the introduction of GeneXpert machines, which have enabled earlier and more accurate TB diagnosis.
Additionally Zimbabwe has introduced TB testing in children using stool samples addressing previous challenges in testing children who cannot produce sputum.
" Children can now be tested for TB using stool samples, addressing previous challenges in testing children who cannot produce sputum" Dr Mugurungi said
He added that through these innovative methods, high-quality TB services can be offered to communities.
DrMugurungi noted that Zimbabwe has made significant progress in addressing the TB burden, with 20,189 TB cases notified in 2024, up from 19,545 in 2013.
However, Dr. Mugurungi emphasised the need to address the emergence of drug-resistant TB and the impact of HIV co-infection.
He pointed out that the battle is far from over.
Dr Mugurungi also stressed that TB is not just a health issue but also a matter of social justice, disproportionately affecting the poor, marginalized, and vulnerable
"By ending TB, we are not only saving lives but also creating a more equitable and prosperous society," he added.
This year's World TB Day was held under the theme "Yes! We Can End TB: Commit. Invest. Deliver."
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