(Monrovia, Liberia, March 24, 2026) —The Ministry of Health (MOH), through its National Leprosy and Tuberculosis Control Program, on Tuesday joined global partners to commemorate World Tuberculosis Day, renewing calls for intensified action to eliminate the disease in Liberia.
The national observance was held under the theme “Yes! We Can End TB”, and accompanied by a strong domestic message: “Led by Liberia, Powered by Communities, United We Stand, Together We Can End TB.”
Delivering remarks at the ceremony, Dr. Cuallau Jabbeh Howe, Assistant Minister for Preventive Services, acknowledged that tuberculosis remains a major public health concern in Liberia and across sub-Saharan Africa, warning that conditions such as overcrowding and malnutrition continue to fuel transmission.
“TB can affect anyone, and awareness and prevention remain critical,” she said, while noting significant progress in the country’s response.
She further disclosed that the government, with support from partners, is scaling up diagnostic and treatment services nationwide, including the deployment of digital X-ray technology with artificial intelligence, GeneXpert machines, and expanded community-based testing across all 15 counties.
Serving as guest speaker, Dr. Maxo Luma, Executive Director of Partners In Health (PIH), stressed the urgency of adapting strategies in the face of evolving health challenges.
“In this moment of uncertainty, there is a need to readjust, refocus, and find moral clarity on what more can be done,” he said. “We must invest in strong, community-based integrated primary healthcare systems.”
Dr. Luma described TB not only as a public health issue but as a moral imperative rooted in human rights, social justice, and global security, adding that the strength of any health system can be measured by its response to the disease.
Also speaking, Dr. Olushago Olu, Country Representative of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Liberia, reaffirmed that tuberculosis is both preventable and curable.
“No one should die from a disease that can be effectively treated,” he said. “We must strengthen collaboration, increase domestic investment, and ensure early detection and treatment for all. With sustained commitment, Liberia can end TB.”
At the legislative level, Grand Cape Mount County Senator and Senate TB Caucus Chair, Sen. Dabah M. Varpilah, commended the government and its partners for their continued support to the program.
“Your contributions have been key to the progress achieved thus far,” she noted, adding that the establishment of the TB Caucus at the Legislature is intended to bolster advocacy and ensure sustained resource allocation for TB control.
“TB was once a death sentence, but today it is curable within six months with proper treatment,” Senator Varpilah emphasized.
Providing a human perspective to the fight, TB survivor D. Chegbo Young, described the commemoration as both a moment of reflection and renewed responsibility.
“Today is not just about awareness; it is about commitment,” he said. “We remember those we have lost, honor survivors, and recommit ourselves to ending a disease that is both preventable and curable.”
The Ministry of Health, however, reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening case detection, expanding community awareness, and improving access to quality TB services as part of a broader strategy to end the disease in Liberia.