Kenya has made significant progress in reducing tuberculosis (TB) infections, with cases dropping from 168,000 in 2017 to 124,000 annually by 2024. This development was highlighted during the country’s observance of World TB Day, where health officials reaffirmed their commitment to further curbing the disease.
As part of its strategic plan, the Ministry of Health aims to achieve an 80 percent reduction in TB-related deaths by 2030. Additionally, the plan seeks to ensure that no household experiences economic hardship due to TB.
A key concern raised during the event was the impact of funding reductions, particularly due to cuts by the US government. To mitigate this, the National Assembly’s Health Committee emphasized the need for a realignment of funds to sustain TB programs. The committee chair urged health stakeholders to submit their budgets on time, ensuring consistent funding and program implementation.
Efforts to strengthen TB response at the county level were also emphasized. The Monitoring and Evaluating Officer for the Kenya National TB Programme called for the implementation of bold policies to enhance resource allocation in counties. Strengthening county-level TB programs is seen as vital to achieving national health goals and ensuring that TB treatment and prevention efforts remain robust.
In Homa Bay County, there has been a notable decline in drug-resistant TB cases alongside an increase in successful treatments. Over the past year, the county reported and treated 3,358 TB patients, including 363 children, representing 10.8 percent of total cases. The number of drug-resistant TB cases has also decreased since 2024, with nine patients currently undergoing treatment.
Public participation played a crucial role in the World TB Day events, as Kenyans were offered free screening services to help detect the disease early. Early diagnosis is a key factor in controlling TB spread and ensuring timely treatment, reducing the overall burden of the disease on the healthcare system.
The government and health sector stakeholders remain committed to combating TB through strategic funding, policy interventions, and increased awareness. With continued efforts at both national and county levels, Kenya remains on track to achieving its ambitious target of reducing TB deaths by 80 percent by 2030
