Staff Reporter
In commemoration of World Tuberculosis (TB) Day, Government has announced the launch of several new strategies and policies aimed at intensifying efforts to eradicate TB in Zimbabwe.
Speaking at the World TB Day Commemorations, Deputy Minister of Health and Child Care, Sleiman Kwidini emphasized the importance of the newly introduced initiatives, indicating a steadfast resolve to address the TB challenge head-on.
"Today, on World TB Day, we are proud to unveil additional strategies and policies that unequivocally demonstrate our unwavering commitment to ending TB, both within the Ministry of Health and Child Care and across the entire government."
Deputy Minister Kwidini underscored the meticulous crafting of the revised Zimbabwe National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Management Guidelines, highlighting their alignment with international standards and lessons drawn from local implementation efforts.
"The revised Zimbabwe National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Management Guidelines have been carefully developed in accordance with the most up-to-date international best practices and the valuable insights gained from our experiences in implementing TB control measures within our country."
Moreso, Deputy Minister Kwidini stressed the significance of the Clinical Guidelines for The Management of Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis, emphasizing their relevance for healthcare workers, program managers, patients, and civil society.
"The Clinical Guidelines for The Management of Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis represent a pivotal resource for all stakeholders involved in the fight against TB, offering comprehensive guidance and incorporating the latest global recommendations on effectively managing cases of drug-resistant TB."
He highlighted the pivotal role of the National TB Communication Strategy in disseminating vital information to stakeholders, aiming to foster behavioral change and improve health-seeking practices.
"The National TB Communication strategy is designed to ensure that essential information reaches all stakeholders involved in TB control efforts, facilitating informed decision-making and encouraging positive changes in health-seeking behaviour through accessible and structured communication channels."
Deputy Minister Kwidini applauded the deployment of ultraportable X-Ray machines equipped with advanced artificial intelligence software, lauding their potential to revolutionize community-based TB screening with enhanced efficiency and accuracy.
"The introduction of ultra-portable X-Ray machines, incorporating the latest artificial intelligence software, represents a significant advancement in our TB screening capabilities. This innovation promises to streamline community-based TB screening efforts, reducing reliance on human interpretation and ensuring more accurate and timely diagnoses."
Moreover, Deputy Minister Kwidini expressed gratitude for the political commitment demonstrated by President Mnangagwa and policymakers, acknowledging their bold steps in prioritizing TB on the national agenda.
