The government has reiterated its commitment to eliminating Tuberculosis (TB) in Zambia by 2030 and has urged citizens to take proactive steps in seeking early diagnosis and treatment.
Minister of Health Elijah Muchima, represented by Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary for Technical Services Kennedy Lishimpi, expressed concern over the country’s high TB-related fatality rate. Speaking at the World TB Day commemoration in Lusaka’s Chawama township under the theme “Yes, We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver,” Dr. Muchima revealed that Zambia loses approximately 5,000 people annually to TB, translating to 20 deaths each week.
The Minister emphasized that TB is both preventable and curable, yet the disease continues to claim lives. He assured Zambians that TB screening and treatment services remain free in all health facilities and urged people to seek medical attention early to help achieve a TB-free nation.
Dr. Muchima highlighted the government’s significant investments in TB programming, ensuring that diagnosis and treatment services are widely available. However, he called for more stakeholders to support these efforts, stressing that the fight against TB requires a collaborative approach beyond the Ministry of Health.
“The fight against TB is not for the Ministry of Health alone. A multisectoral approach is essential to strengthen the cause and ensure success,” he said.
World Health Organization (WHO) Representative to Zambia, Dr. Clement Lasuba, whose speech was read by WHO Programme Officer Lastone Chitembo, echoed the need for adequate resources to combat TB effectively. He called for diversified local funding strategies to support TB prevention and care, emphasizing the importance of sustainable investment.
“Sustainable and cost-efficient investment of resources is crucial to ensuring universal access to TB prevention and care,” Dr. Lasuba stated.
Meanwhile, Julius Buchizya, a three-time TB survivor, urged collective action to eliminate TB in Zambia. He called on both the government and private sector to prioritize TB programs, ensuring they receive the necessary funding to fight the disease.
“I urge all stakeholders to ensure that TB programs are well-funded because together, we can achieve the goal of a TB-free Zambia,” he said.
The event served as a reminder of the urgent need for coordinated action, increased investment, and community participation in the fight against TB, as Zambia pushes towards its 2030 eradication target.