Rwanda Biomedical Centre has announced a significant decline in new tuberculosis (TB) cases, reporting a 73% reduction nationwide, marking a major milestone in the country’s fight against the disease.
The announcement came on Tuesday, March 24, during the observance of World Tuberculosis Day under the theme: “Together, we can end TB.”
National celebrations held in Gasabo District included screening and testing programs targeting high-risk groups, such as transport and construction workers.
RBC attributed the decline to several interventions, including expanded roles for community health workers who raise awareness and encourage early testing. Nearly 27% of TB patients are now referred to health facilities by these workers. Health centres have also been equipped with modern rapid diagnostic tools, including Genexpert machines.
All TB treatment in Rwanda is provided free of charge. “Screening and treatment for TB are free in all health facilities across the country,” RBC emphasized.
Dr Tuyishime Albert called on everyone to play their part to achieve Rwanda’s 2035 goal of eliminating TB, urging early testing, preventive measures, and adherence to prescribed treatment.
Tuberculosis is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which spreads through the air when a person with active TB coughs, sneezes, or speaks. The disease remains among the top ten killers globally and is a leading opportunistic infection among people living with HIV.
According to the 2024 World Health Organization (WHO) data, more than 10 million people worldwide developed TB, resulting in 1.23 million deaths, including 150,000 people living with HIV.
