Africa's TB progress faces ongoing challenges

THE African region has seen a significant decrease in tuberculosis (TB) deaths by 15% and cases by 24% between 2015 and 2023 to improved case detection and treatment.

- GENEVIEVE SERRA

However, World TB Day 2025 highlights the urgent need for action and investment to tackle TB challenges such as limited access to rapid diagnostics and high cost of treatment.

The World Health Organization (WHO) End TB Strategy aims to reduce TB incidence by 75% and 50% respectively by 2025, compared with 2015 levels. Several African countries have made notable progress, with South Africa achieving a 50% reduction in TB incidence during this period. Mozambique, Tanzania, Togo and Zambia have also met the 2020 milestone of a 20% drop in TB deaths.

Despite progress, limited access to rapid diagnostics and the high cost of treatment for TB and drug-sensitive TB remain major challenges. Low funding also impedes TB control efforts.