Tanzania has reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating tuberculosis (TB) by 2030 as the country joins the global community in marking World Tuberculosis Day on March 24, 2026.
The Government Chief Medical Officer said the day is set aside each year to strengthen strategies, increase awareness and mobilise communities in the fight against TB, one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases despite the availability of effective treatment.
This year’s theme, “Through Collective Efforts of Leaders, Stakeholders and Citizens, It Is Possible to Eliminate Tuberculosis in the Country,” calls for stronger collaboration among government leaders, development partners, health professionals and the public in order to accelerate the fight against the disease.
According to the 2024 report by the World Health Organization, Tanzania has made remarkable progress in reducing the burden of tuberculosis over the past decade.
The report shows that new TB infections have declined from 306 cases per 100,000 people in 2015 to 172 cases per 100,000 people in 2024, representing a reduction of about 44 percent.
Deaths related to tuberculosis have also dropped significantly, from about 56,000 in 2015 to 23,500 in 2024, a decline of nearly 59 percent.
The progress places Tanzania among a small group of countries making steady progress toward achieving the global target of ending TB by 2030.
Health authorities say these achievements are the result of sustained government investment in strengthening the health system, particularly through expanding diagnostic services and improving treatment access across the country.
Modern diagnostic technologies have been introduced in many health facilities to improve early detection of tuberculosis.
The government has also ensured the availability of medicines for TB treatment while strengthening systems to ensure patients complete their full course of medication in order to prevent drug-resistant strains of the disease.
Despite the progress, the government says more efforts are still required to fully eliminate tuberculosis.
The Ministry of Health continues to expand public awareness campaigns through mass media, health professionals and community health workers in order to improve understanding of the disease and encourage people with symptoms to seek testing early.
Under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania has also called on citizens to play an active role in preventing the spread of tuberculosis in communities.
Health experts advise that anyone experiencing persistent cough, frequent fever, night sweats or unexplained weight loss should visit the nearest health facility for screening and testing.
The government also emphasises the importance of patients strictly following medical instructions once treatment begins.
Completing the full course of medication is critical to prevent drug resistance and ensure full recovery.
Authorities further urge communities to eliminate stigma and discrimination against people diagnosed with tuberculosis, noting that patients who begin treatment quickly become less likely to transmit the disease to others.
Members of the public are also encouraged to reduce the risk of infection by avoiding overcrowded environments, ensuring adequate ventilation in homes, workplaces and public transport, and maintaining proper environmental hygiene.
Communities are advised to report suspected TB cases early so that patients can receive timely diagnosis and treatment.
Families living with TB patients are also encouraged to ensure that children and other household members are screened and provided with appropriate medical care.
Health officials say the theme of this year’s World TB Day highlights the importance of collective action in ending tuberculosis and protecting public health.
With continued commitment from the government, health professionals and citizens, Tanzania believes the goal of eliminating TB by 2030 remains achievable.
