Ghana has renewed its call for active community involvement in the fight against tuberculosis (TB), emphasizing that the disease can be eliminated with strong leadership, adequate resources, and empowered citizens. The appeal was made by the Deputy Minister for Health, Hon. Prof. Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, during the nation’s commemoration of World TB Day 2026 under the theme, “Yes! We Can End TB: Led by Communities, Powered by the People.”
Addressing stakeholders, health professionals, and community leaders, the Deputy Minister highlighted the urgent need to strengthen TB detection and treatment across the country. She noted that approximately 44,000 Ghanaians contract TB each year, but fewer than half are diagnosed and receive proper care.
“Ending TB is not just a health sector responsibility. Communities play a critical role in raising awareness, supporting patients, and ensuring timely treatment. Every Ghanaian has a part to play in breaking the chain of transmission,” she stated.
Prof. Dr. Ayensu-Danquah outlined key government interventions aimed at enhancing TB diagnosis and treatment, including the procurement of AI-enabled digital X-ray systems, the installation of 15 GeneXpert machines, and the deployment of TB-LAM test kits. These initiatives are complemented by the Free Primary Healthcare programme, which ensures that patients have easier access to testing and treatment services.
Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, underscored the importance of identifying and treating every TB case. “Our frontline health workers are the backbone of Ghana’s fight against TB. Their dedication in diagnosing, treating, and supporting patients is critical to saving lives and preventing the spread of this disease,” he said.
WHO Country Representative Fiona Braka echoed the call for intensified efforts, warning that TB continues to claim a life every 83 seconds across Africa. She emphasized the need for strong leadership, increased funding, and community engagement to accelerate the elimination of TB as a public health threat.
The observance of World TB Day 2026 in Ghana reinforces the message that, with collective action and community-led initiatives, ending TB is an achievable goal. The Ministry of Health continues to urge all Ghanaians to participate actively in awareness campaigns, early detection programmes, and support for those affected by the disease.
