Malawi commemorates World TB, Leprosy day

By Martha Chikoti

The Malawi First Lady Monica Chakwera has urged citizens, agencies, and donor partners to join hands in making Leprosy and TB history by 2030.

Encouraged Collaboration to end TB, Leprosy by 2030 PIC Roy Makosi, Mana

Madame Chakwera made the sentiments on Monday at Mgona community ground during commemoration of 2025 World TB and Leprosy day .

In her remarks, Chakwera said despite that cases of TB and Leprosy have reduced but there is need for collaborative efforts by NGOs to ensure the cases are completely eliminated.

Madame Chakwera said TB and Leprosy is treatable and encouraged people to seek medical attention whenever they experience the signs and symptoms.

On her part , World Health Organization (WHO) Country Director Nima Kimambo encouraging collective efforts to combat TB and Leprosy.

Minister of Health Khumbuze Kandodo Chiponda noted that TB and Leprosy were once associated with poverty, but awareness has increased. She expressed optimism that continued efforts will lead to progress.

TB survivor John Sinthani from Chikanda in Lilongwe, shared his story, having been diagnosed with TB six and a half years ago but he is cured.

Another survivor, Dorothy Nyasulu, said as a Leprosy survivor, she started showing symptoms in 2022 but was cured after an 18 months treatment.

This year's commemoration was held under the theme "Yes, We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver" and "Unite, Eliminate Leprosy".

TB remains a significant global health threat, killing more people than any other infectious disease. In 2023, 11.7 million people fell ill with TB, resulting in 1.25 million deaths.

Malawi reported 18,310 TB cases in 2024, with a treatment success rate of 91% and a decline in mortality rate.

For Leprosy, Malawi attained elimination status in 1994 and maintains it nationally.