Africa Requires $4.5bn Yearly to Strengthen Tuberculosis Response – WHO

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The World Health Organization (WHO) has said African countries need an estimated $4.5 billion annually to effectively combat Tuberculosis (TB), warning that current funding levels remain significantly below what is required.

In a message marking World Tuberculosis Day 2026, WHO Regional Director for Africa, Mohamed Janabi, highlighted both progress and persistent challenges in the region’s fight against the disease.

According to WHO, Africa has recorded notable gains over the past decade. Between 2015 and 2024, TB-related deaths declined by 46 percent, while incidence dropped by 28 percent. The region has also led global adoption of shorter treatment regimens for drug-resistant TB, with uptake rising from nearly zero to about 40 percent between 2023 and 2024.

Despite these achievements, Janabi noted that major gaps remain. He said nearly 70 percent of households affected by TB face catastrophic financial burdens, the highest rate globally.

“These challenges are compounded by insufficient investment,” he said, adding that the region faces a funding shortfall of about $3.6 billion annually.

WHO also revealed that around 600,000 TB cases in Africa go undiagnosed or untreated each year, while access to rapid diagnostic tools remains limited, with only just over half of patients able to access recommended testing.

However, progress continues in treatment innovation. The six-month all-oral BPaLM regimen has shown success rates exceeding 85 percent, offering improved outcomes for patients with drug-resistant TB.

Several countries have also reached key milestones. South Africa has met its 2025 target for reducing TB incidence, while Mozambique, Tanzania, Togo and Zambia have achieved a 75 percent reduction in TB deaths.

Janabi called on governments, development partners and civil society to intensify efforts by increasing investment, expanding access to diagnostics and treatment, and strengthening health systems.

“Ending TB is within reach,” he said. “With sustained leadership, adequate funding and strong community engagement, Africa can eliminate tuberculosis as a public health threat.”