Her Excellency Madam Monica Chakwera, the First Lady of Malawi, graced this year’s World Stop TB Day commemoration at Mgona Ground in Area 25 on March 24, 2024. Addressing the gathering, she elaborated on the crucial role of collaboration between the government and the media in combating tuberculosis (TB) and leprosy. She emphasized that winning the fight against TB requires the active involvement of the media, often referred to as the “fourth estate.”

Dr. Kuzani Mbendera, Program Manager of the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Elimination Program (NTLEP), echoed the First Lady’s sentiments. He highlighted that for over five years, NTLEP has been training journalists across the country to accurately report on TB and leprosy to dispel myths, and reduce the stigma associated with these diseases.

As of 2024, approximately 18,000 patients were undergoing TB treatment in Malawi, marking a significant decline from the previous year. However, challenges remain, particularly in identifying and treating TB cases among children.

According to Sam Chirwa, the Child TB Desk Officer at NTLEP, the program reported 1,224 childhood TB cases nationwide in 2024. This figure represents only about 60% of the anticipated TB cases in children per year, highlighting the need for increased advocacy and intensified efforts to detect and treat the remaining 40% of cases.

During the event, the First Lady took the opportunity to honor outstanding contributions in the fight against TB. She presented awards to districts that demonstrated excellence in TB management and also recognized journalists who have effectively reported on TB issues.

The First Lady also visited various pavilions set up by stakeholders involved in TB interventions, including Paradiso TB Patients Trust. These exhibitions showcased efforts to combat TB and provided valuable insights into ongoing programs. Additionally, TB survivors shared their testimonies, offering powerful personal stories that underscored the importance of timely diagnosis, treatment, and community support in the fight against TB.

In a bid to support grassroots efforts, Madam Chakwera handed over bicycles to Paradiso TB Patients Trust volunteers. These bicycles will facilitate community-based TB case finding and ensure that more people receive timely diagnosis and treatment.

A Paradiso volunteer receives a bicycle from First Lady Monica Chakwera, donated by the Stop TB Partnership to support community TB interventions.

As Paradiso TB Patients Trust, we are deeply grateful for this generous support and the First Lady’s commitment to the fight against TB. Her dedication strengthens our efforts in reaching more people and ensuring that TB services are accessible to those in need.