The Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ) joined the global community in commemorating World Tuberculosis Day under the theme “Yes We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver.” The event, held at Chawama grounds in Lusaka, served as a platform to showcase CIDRZ’s work and raise awareness about Tuberculosis (TB) among the local community.

Speaking at the event, Minister of Health Dr Elijah Muchima emphasised Zambia’s progress toward its 2024 TB targets despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. In a speech delivered on his behalf by Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary Dr Kennedy Lishimpi, Dr Muchima noted that the country has continued to reduce the number of new TB cases and deaths.

Dr Muchima acknowledged that Zambia is still far from achieving its goal of reducing TB cases to less than 100 cases per 100,000 people and ultimately eliminating TB-related deaths.

“I call on all stakeholders to commit to ending TB in our country by investing time and resources into this fight. As this year’s theme states, ‘Yes We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver,’ we can achieve the goal of ending TB by 2030 if we all play our part,” Dr Muchima said.

He further thanked all partners, including local and international organisations, for their contributions to the fight against TB over the years.

Meanwhile, World Health Organization (WHO) Representative to Zambia, Dr Clement Lasuba, commended the dedication of healthcare workers, communities, and civil society in combating TB. In remarks delivered by WHO’s HIV/TB Programme Officer, Dr. Lastone Chitembo,  Dr Lasuba praised frontline health workers for their relentless efforts in saving lives and providing care.

“Their commitment is the backbone of our collective effort to eliminate this disease. Every day, they work on the frontlines, saving lives, providing care, and spreading awareness. They are the heroes who help ensure that those affected by TB receive the treatment and support they need, often in the face of immense challenges,” Dr Lasuba stated.

At this year’s commemorations several stakeholders including CIDRZ reaffirming their commitment to the fight against TB and ending the epidemic in Zambia.