The Ministry of Health, alongside key stakeholders, has reaffirmed its commitment to combating tuberculosis (TB) as the world observes World Tuberculosis Day.

Under the global theme, “Yes! We Can End TB! Commit, Invest, Deliver!”, the event highlighted ongoing efforts and new strategies aimed at eradicating the infectious disease that continues to affect millions globally.

In a national address with stakeholders, the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, unveiled plans to increase funding to tackle tuberculosis.

He emphasised that the Government of Ghana, under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, remains committed to this cause by boosting funding for TB control and strengthening the healthcare system to ensure that no TB patient remains undiagnosed or untreated.

“The Ministry of Health pledges to allocate adequate resources to enhance diagnostic and treatment capacity. While progress has been made in expanding access to essential tools, challenges persist in some areas. Increased investment in diagnostics, healthcare facilities, and research is vital for improving early detection and effective TB management,” he stated.

TB remains the least funded disease in Ghana’s health budget, yet it claims the lives of millions of Ghanaians, particularly children.

In 2024, over 20,599 cases of tuberculosis were recorded across the country, yet a success rate of 90% has been achieved in curbing the spread of the disease.

Director of the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, Prof. Dorothy Yeboah-Manu highlighted the achievements of health professionals and experts in dealing with tuberculosis and applauded them for their efforts in fighting the disease.

“Yes, we can end TB because even in Ghana, we have intensified research, we have produced drugs that are effective, that can kill most of the infecting pathogen and thus I applaud the program manager for his leadership for this because it's one disease that day in and day out the service, academia, research is needed”, she emphasized.

Representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO) and other global health bodies praised the country's efforts and reaffirmed their support.

“WHO, especially in the African region, remains steadfast in supporting countries through strategic guidance, technical assistance, and strengthened surveillance systems. We have the African TB Scorecard, which was developed in collaboration with the African Union. This will continue to be a critical tool in tracking progress and ensuring accountability”, said WHO representative and Country Lead,Frank Lule.

Programme Manager of the National Tuberculosis Control Programme Dr. Yaw Adusi-Poku, urged teachers and caregivers to remain vigilant and seek prompt medical attention if a child shows any symptoms. He emphasized that early detection and treatment are crucial to safeguarding children’s health and well-being.

“Children are very important to us, and they are the age group we are most concerned about. This is because their immunity is weaker, making them more vulnerable to illnesses. Moreover, they are our future leaders, and their health directly impacts their ability to learn and concentrate in class.”

With ongoing research, strengthened health systems, and community engagement, the Ministry and its partners remain hopeful that the fight against TB will gain momentum.

World Tuberculosis Day is observed annually on March 24 to raise awareness about TB and efforts to eliminate it. The date commemorates the discovery of the TB-causing Mycobacterium tuberculosis by Dr. Robert Koch in 1882, paving the way for diagnosis and treatment advancements.