The Omaheke Region reported 681 cases of tuberculosis (TB) and 39 deaths last year, highlighting the urgent need for commitment and collective responsibility to end the disease.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Health and Social Services, Esperance Luvindao, Omaheke Governor Pijoo Nganate said the region is, however, being commended for achieving a TB treatment success rate of 93%.
Nganate pointed out that a major challenge is that many communities in the region live on farms and in settlements far from health facilities, making access to treatment difficult.
Despite these challenges, Namibia has made significant progress.
“I am proud to announce that in 2024 we reached a treatment success rate of 87%, just 3% short of the World Health Organisation target. Furthermore, our treatment success rate for patients with drug-resistant TB stands at 75%, surpassing the WHO target. We have also seen remarkable success in addressing the TB/HIV co-epidemic. We have maintained a positive trend where almost 100% of TB patients are tested for HIV, and 99% of those who test positive are initiated on antiretroviral therapy.”
WHO Country Representative Richard Banda noted that the organisation remains fully committed to providing assistance to help end TB.
“We must focus on three priorities: early detection of all TB cases, ensuring quality treatment for everyone, and addressing the social and economic factors that perpetuate TB. Ending TB also requires political commitment, increased funding, and innovation in treatment.”
The Chairperson of the TB Caucus, Nono Katjingisiua, commended Namibia for its resilience in the fight against TB.
“We are no longer fighting with the limited tools of the past. We are now equipped with rapid molecular tests, digital health innovations, and a global community that refuses to leave anyone behind.”
The Chairperson of the Omaheke Regional Council, Rocco Nguvauva, said there is also a need to educate communities on TB prevention.
“This is essential to prevent complications, reduce transmission, and ultimately save lives. We must also address the underlying factors contributing to TB, including poor ventilation, inadequate sanitation, and overcrowded living conditions. Promoting proper hygiene practices and improving living conditions will go a long way in preventing the spread of TB and other communicable diseases.”
This year, the World TB Day commemoration was held under the theme, “Yes, We Can End TB.”