By Dorica Mtenje LILONGWE, (MaraviPost): Malawi has recorded a 4% drop in tuberculosis (TB) cases, with reported TB notifications declining from 19,029 in 2023 to 18,310 in 2024, according to the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Elimination Program (NTLEP).
Speaking during a bi-annual media briefing held in Salima, NTLEP representative Dickens Chimatiro highlighted the progress made in TB control, among all populations.
He stated that the TB mortality rate has dropped by 54% in HIV TB patients and by 60% among people living with HIV, marking a significant public health achievement.
However, Chimatiro noted a high burden of TB among men where by notable 63% of TB cases were reported among men.
He further said the majority of new TB cases are now emerging among individuals aged 25 to 54—an age group described as “the exciting moments of youth,” indicating both increased risk and activity levels during this period.
Despite these gains, the TB program is facing funding constraints.
Chimatiro warned that cuts in donor support, influenced in part by the so-called “Trump effect,” are forcing the program to scale back certain activities.
“We are going to prioritize the implementation of activities so as to cope with the donor funding cuts, which have hit us hard,” Chimatiro said.
As Malawi continues its fight against TB, officials are appealing for new donors to sustain the progress and avoid reversing hard-won gains in TB control.
TB program mission aims at ensuring effective equitable and accessible TB and Leprosy prevention diagnosis treatment and care services in Malawi.
