Parliament, Tuesday, 24 March 2026 – The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Heath, Ms Faith Muthambi, said World TB Day on 24 March every year is an important opportunity to raise public awareness about the harmful social and economic impact of tuberculosis (TB) and to urge increased efforts to end the global spread of the disease.
“It is not only a day where the country commemorates but its day where the country and the world reflect on the progress made in the fight against TB using modern medicine and treatment,” said Ms Muthambi.
The South African government’s theme for World TB Day 2026 is: “Yes! You and I Can End TB”. This theme requires each one of us to take responsibility for our health and to provide and support those affected by TB, especially patients undergoing treatment.
Innovative treatment of the disease over the years has achieved a great deal but, nonetheless, TB remains the leading infectious cause of death worldwide. According to the World Health Organisation, in 2024, 10.7 million people fell ill with TB, while 1.24 million died of the disease.
As we observe World TB Day, Ms Muthambi said, let us recommit to ending the TB epidemic to create a future where tuberculosis is no longer a threat to communities.
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON HEALTH, MS FAITH MUTHAMBI.
For media inquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact the committee’s Media Officer:
Name: Yoliswa Landu (Ms)
Cell: 081 497 4694
E-mail: ylandu@parliament.gov.za
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