The World Health Organization has raised fresh concerns over the burden of tuberculosis (TB) in Africa, revealing that the disease claims a life every 83 seconds across the region.
In a message to mark World Tuberculosis Day 2026, the WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr Mohamed Janabi, disclosed that TB killed about 378,000 people in 2024, while 2.7 million others were infected—accounting for roughly a quarter of the global burden.
Despite the alarming figures, the WHO noted significant progress in the fight against TB. Between 2015 and 2024, TB-related deaths in the region declined by 46 per cent, while incidence dropped by 28 per cent. Countries such as South Africa, Mozambique, Tanzania, Togo and Zambia have also recorded major milestones in reducing cases and deaths.
The organisation highlighted advances in rapid diagnostic tools and improved treatment options, including a six-month all-oral regimen for drug-resistant TB, which has recorded success rates above 85 per cent and is being widely adopted across the region.
However, the WHO warned that major challenges persist. An estimated 600,000 people with TB remain undiagnosed or untreated annually, while access to recommended diagnostic tools is still limited. The region also records about 62,000 cases of drug-resistant TB each year, with many households facing severe financial strain due to treatment costs.
The agency further identified inadequate funding as a critical barrier, noting that about 4.5 billion dollars is required annually for TB control in Africa, with a current shortfall of 3.6 billion dollars.
The WHO called on governments to strengthen political commitment, increase domestic funding and improve health systems, in line with targets set at the United Nations High-Level Meeting on Tuberculosis 2023.
It also emphasised the role of communities, civil society groups and health workers in identifying cases, supporting treatment and reducing stigma.
The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to supporting African countries through technical assistance and partnerships, expressing optimism that with sustained efforts, tuberculosis can be eliminated as a public health threat in the region.