25/03/2026
YES! WE CAN END TB
Bamalete Lutheran Hospital (BLH), in partnership with GaMalete Primary Health Care Services, joined the global community in commemorating World Tubercolosis day on March 24,2026. The event was held under the theme “Yes! We Can End TB.”
The commemoration began with a morning walk from BLH to East Gate Mall and back. This year’s program focused on educating healthcare staff about the disease, equipping them with knowledge to strengthen prevention and treatment efforts.
The Guest speaker Dr. Molefhi, National TB Program Manager said TB is an infectious disease that is spread from one person to another when a person with TB releases the bacteria in the air by coughing or sneezing etc. The signs and symptoms of TB include: a cough that lasts 2 weeks or more, fever, weight loss and night sweats. Anyone with these symptoms should seek help from nearest healthcare facility. TB is curable. It is important to seek treatment early and follow the prescribed treatment. TB is also preventable.
Dr Molefi emphasized that ending TB is not just an aspiration but a reality that can be obtained through collaborative efforts from both the government and the people. “It challenges us to move beyond intentions and to demonstrate measurable progress through deliberate commitment, strategic investment, and impactful delivery. Led by Countries, powered by the people, demonstrates that government efforts alone are not enough without people responsiveness, community engagements and awareness”. She added.
The District TB Coordinator Ms. Sejabodile noted that TB remains a major public health challenge in GaMalete, closely tied to HIV prevalence and socio-economic conditions. She reported that the district recorded 86 TB cases per 100,000 people, with 48 cases notified in 2025. Pulmonary TB makes up 90% of infections, and 85% are bacteriologically confirmed. HIV co-infection affects nearly a third of TB patients, though 86% of these individuals are on antiretroviral therapy.While detection rates have improved, late health-seeking behavior continues to delay diagnosis.
Prevention strategies are showing promise, with household contact tracing reaching 70–85% of identified contacts and preventive therapy provided to children under five, HIV-positive children under 12 and people living with HIV. However, stigma, delayed diagnosis and inconsistent follow-up remain obstacles.
The event featured screenings and health talks by Bomra,Pharmacy, Social Work, Pastoral Care and Psychologist,Laboratory Manager and TB Isolation Ward Doctor.
