Malawi's First Lady Advocates for TB Eradication in Geneva
In Malawi, 26,000 TB cases and 3,000 deaths occurred in 2021, with 45% going undetected.
GENEVA — Malawi's First Lady Monica Chakwera traveled to Geneva on Sunday to participate in the World Health Summit and represent her nation and the SADC region as a Tuberculosis Ambassador, writes Bridgette Mwanoka.
Invited by the Stop TB Partnership after the launch of its Leaders Coalition last September, Chakwera joined global efforts to combat a disease that claimed 1.3 million lives in 2022, including 167,000 HIV-positive individuals, according to the World TB Report.
"In our collective effort to combat Tuberculosis, global collaboration is essential. It is an honor to represent Malawi and contribute to this crucial endeavor," Chakwera said.
At the U.N. General Assembly High-Level Meeting on Tuberculosis in 2023, targets were set to address the disease by 2027.
Chakwera's presence at a May 26 side event focused on leveraging digital technology for early TB detection underscored her innovative approach. She will deliver an official address May 29.
The first lady has championed the cause, hosting TB survivors and partners at Kamuzu Palace on March 30.
"With concerted efforts and strategic interventions, we can overcome the challenges posed by Tuberculosis. Together, we can make a difference," she said.
In Malawi, 26,000 TB cases and 3,000 deaths occurred in 2021, with 45% going undetected.
However, incidence declined from 338 per 100,000 population in 2010 to 125 per 100,000 in 2022.
"Not only do we mourn the lives lost to Tuberculosis, but we also acknowledge the importance of early detection and treatment. Every life saved is a testament to our collective determination," Chakwera affirmed.
Her Geneva trip signifies Malawi's commitment to eradicating TB and achieving global health goals.