By: Luciano Milala
Malawi has reduced tuberculosis (TB) cases by 40% since 2015, but financial constraints and a high TB/HIV co-infection rate threaten progress. Health officials warn that, without urgent investment, the country may struggle to meet its 2030 TB elimination target.
Speaking at this year’s 2025 World TB Day commemoration, Minister of Health Khumbize Kandodo Chiponda reaffirmed government’s commitment to continue fighting the disease.
“We cannot win this fight alone. We need collective action from all stakeholders to eliminate TB and leprosy,” Kandodo Chiponda said.
Statistics from health authorities show that last year, Malawi registered over 18,000 Tb cases, a slight increase in treatement success rate with 91%, showing steady progress.
However, TB remains the leading cause of death among people living with HIV, with 56 per 100,000 Malawians affected.
World Health Organization (WHO) Country Representative Dr. Neema Kimaro called for a stronger investment to bridge treatment gaps.
“TB cannot be defeated without proper financing. We must close the funding gap to ensure equitable access to care,” Dr. Kimaro emphasised.
The statics further indicate that, globally, 11.7 million people developed TB in 2023, yet 50% of affected households face catastrophic healthcare costs..
WHO urged Malawi to expand mobile diagnostic vans, digital health systems, and shorter treatment regimens to improve access.
