by Precious Nnadi
The Fund TB Cluster, an alliance of five key organizations, has unveiled a major new campaign to address the alarming 70% funding deficit in tuberculosis (TB) control efforts across Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Delta, and Imo States. This campaign, spearheaded by the Initiative for Prevention and Control of Diseases (IPCD), aims to secure essential funding to save lives and enhance TB treatment and prevention strategies.
During a recent series of workshops and advocacy visits held in Owerri, the coalition emphasized the critical need for increased investment from both public and private sectors. Edidiong Dickson, Programme Manager of Policy Alert, highlighted the stark reality that only 30% of TB funding is currently available, with 6% from government sources and 24% from foreign donors. This leaves a significant 70% funding gap that threatens the effectiveness of TB control measures and the health of many individuals.
Dickson, representing one of the coalition’s partner organizations, stressed the importance of addressing this gap through enhanced public and private sector engagement. “To achieve sustainable and effective TB control, we must tackle this funding shortfall head-on,” Dickson stated. The coalition’s efforts are supported by USAID, which has pledged to back the campaign with critical resources and funding.
The comprehensive campaign includes several key initiatives. It will focus on acquiring advanced GeneXpert machines to improve TB diagnosis, renovating Directly Observed Treatment (DOT) centers, and subsidizing the costs of TB diagnosis. Additionally, the campaign will provide nutritional support for patients undergoing treatment and fund awareness programs in workplaces to educate employees about TB.
The Fund TB Cluster is also working to foster broader community involvement. Government officials have proposed introductions to key state personnel and philanthropic donors to secure additional support for the initiative. Furthermore, the campaign will seek endorsements from the Nigerian Bar Association and collaborate with local churches to enhance outreach and sensitization efforts.
Pius Okaneme from IPCD underscored the significance of collective action in tackling the TB crisis. Reflecting on a recent meeting, he praised a new infographic with the message, “INVEST IN TB, SAVE LIVES,” which succinctly captures the essence of their mission. Okaneme called for unified commitment to the TB cause, urging stakeholders to leverage their platforms and influence to promote the campaign.
The campaign’s focus on media coverage is also a vital component. The coalition has appealed to media outlets to provide extensive coverage of the TB crisis, including feature stories and interviews with experts. This increased visibility is crucial for raising public awareness and driving support for TB control efforts.
As the campaign gains momentum, the Fund TB Cluster remains steadfast in its commitment to addressing the TB funding gap and improving health outcomes across the targeted states. By rallying support from all sectors of society, they aim to make significant strides in the fight against tuberculosis and ensure that no one is left behind in the battle against this deadly disease.
