Ghana is intensifying its fight against tuberculosis (TB) with a renewed focus on community-led interventions, as thousands of cases continue to go undetected each year.
Ahead of World Tuberculosis Day on March 24, health officials are drawing attention to a significant detection gap, with only about half of the estimated 44,000 annual TB cases in the country being diagnosed and treated.
Dr. Bernard Ziem, Programme Manager of the National Tuberculosis Programme, said empowering communities remains key to reversing the trend. He noted that local leaders, volunteers, and TB survivors play a vital role in identifying cases early, supporting treatment, and reducing stigma.
This year’s theme, “Yes! We Can End TB: Led by Communities, powered by the People,” underscores the importance of grassroots involvement in tackling the disease.
According to the World Health Organization, TB remains one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases despite being preventable and curable. In Ghana, the disease continues to pose a public health challenge, partly due to undiagnosed cases that contribute to ongoing transmission.
Health authorities are also raising concern about low detection rates among children, who account for only about 4.5% of identified cases—well below the expected 8–10%. Efforts in 2026 will therefore prioritise improving paediatric TB diagnosis.
Dr. Ziem urged the public to seek medical attention early, especially for persistent cough and related symptoms, while encouraging patients to complete their treatment. He also called for improved ventilation in homes and the avoidance of overcrowded spaces to limit transmission.
He further appealed to government, civil society, and the private sector to increase investment in healthcare, warning that declining global health funding could affect progress made so far.
The campaign highlights the need for a collective national response, with communities positioned at the forefront of efforts to eliminate tuberculosis in Ghana.
