Africa recorded the highest global decline in tuberculosis (TB) deaths between 2015 and 2023, with a 42/percent reduction, according to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) 2024 Global TB Report. During the same period, TB cases on the continent dropped by 24/percent, reflecting the impact of improved healthcare efforts.
Key Factors Behind the Progress
The decline in TB deaths is largely due to better case detection and increased treatment coverage. In 2023, 1.9 million cases were identified compared to 1.4 million in 2020, ensuring more people received timely treatment. Treatment coverage also improved significantly, rising from 55/percent to 74/percent, which contributed to reduced transmission and mortality.
South Africa made remarkable progress by reducing TB incidence by 50/percent between 2015 and 2023, exceeding its 2025 target ahead of schedule. Similarly, Mozambique, Tanzania, Togo, and Zambia achieved a 75/percent reduction in TB deaths before their set deadline. Other countries, including Kenya, Malawi, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, and Uganda, are also nearing this goal, with mortality reductions of over 66/percent.
Regional Trends and Persistent Challenges
Eastern and Southern Africa led the region in reducing TB incidence, with cases dropping from 466 to 266 per 100,000 people between 2000 and 2023. However, Central and West Africa continue to face difficulties, with limited progress in eliminating TB due to healthcare infrastructure challenges.
Despite these achievements, major hurdles remain. Only 54/percent of TB patients have access to rapid diagnostic tools, making it difficult to detect drug-resistant TB early. Additionally, the financial burden of TB treatment is overwhelming for many, with nearly 68/percent of affected households experiencing catastrophic healthcare costs.
Funding Gaps Threaten Future Progress
A significant funding gap also threatens ongoing efforts to control TB. Of the estimated $4.5 billion required, only $0.9 billion has been secured, leaving a shortfall of $3.6 billion. Without increased investment, maintaining progress and expanding TB prevention efforts could become difficult.
While Africa has made notable progress in reducing TB deaths, sustained funding, improved diagnostics, and increased treatment access will be essential to further reduce the burden of the disease.