World TB Day
Every year on March 24th, the world unites to raise awareness about the devastating impact of tuberculosis — and to accelerate efforts to end the epidemic.
March 24th
What Is World TB Day?
World TB Day is observed every year on March 24th to raise public awareness about the devastating health, social, and economic consequences of tuberculosis. It also serves as a global call to action to step up efforts to end the TB epidemic.
This date marks the day in 1882 when Dr. Robert Koch announced his discovery of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium that causes TB. His groundbreaking discovery opened the way toward diagnosing and curing this disease.
Despite being preventable and curable, TB remains one of the world's deadliest infectious diseases. Each day, over 4,100 people lose their lives to TB, and nearly 28,000 people fall ill with this preventable and curable disease.
The History of World TB Day
Key milestones in the fight against tuberculosis — a disease that has affected humanity for thousands of years.
Discovery of TB Bacterium
Dr. Robert Koch presented his discovery of Mycobacterium tuberculosis to a group of scientists in Berlin, revealing the cause of TB for the first time.
BCG Vaccine Developed
The Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine was first used in humans. It remains the only licensed vaccine against TB and is still widely used today.
First TB Antibiotic
Streptomycin, the first antibiotic effective against TB, was discovered by Albert Schatz and Selman Waksman, revolutionizing TB treatment.
First World TB Day
The first World TB Day was sponsored by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, marking the centennial of Dr. Koch's announcement.
WHO End TB Strategy
The World Health Assembly approved the WHO End TB Strategy, with a vision of a world free of tuberculosis — zero deaths, disease, and suffering due to TB.
First UN High-Level Meeting on TB
World leaders convened the first-ever UN High-Level Meeting on TB, resulting in a political declaration with commitments to accelerate the global TB response.
TB by the Numbers
Understanding the scale of the tuberculosis epidemic worldwide and in Namibia.
10.6M
People fell ill with TB globally in 2023
1.3M
Deaths from TB annually — making it the top infectious disease killer
85%
Treatment success rate — TB is preventable and curable
Namibia
Among the top 30 high TB burden countries in the world
Why We Commemorate World TB Day
World TB Day is more than a date on the calendar — it's a powerful moment to unite voices, challenge stigma, and demand action.
Raise Awareness
TB is often called the "forgotten pandemic." World TB Day brings critical attention to a disease that still kills over a million people every year.
Fight Stigma
By sharing stories of TB survivors and champions, we break down barriers and show that TB can affect anyone — and that recovery is possible.
Demand Action
World TB Day is a platform to hold governments accountable, push for increased funding, and advocate for policies that protect the most vulnerable.
Our Impact
TB Free Foundation's Role in Namibia
The TB Free Foundation of Namibia was founded by Karin Husselmann, a TB survivor whose personal journey fuelled a lifelong commitment to advocating for those affected by tuberculosis.
Our mission is to break the barriers that prevent Namibians from accessing diagnosis, treatment, and support. As a leading civil society voice on TB in Namibia, we work closely with the Ministry of Health and Social Services, international health bodies, and local communities.
Advocacy & Policy: Engaging government officials and policymakers to prioritize TB funding and patient rights
Community Outreach: Donating resources like e-bikes to healthcare workers in remote regions like Tsumkwe
Awareness Campaigns: Leading World TB Day commemorations and media campaigns to fight stigma
Survivor Support: Amplifying the voices of TB champions and survivors across Namibia
The Namibian Context
TB in Namibia
Namibia faces a significant TB burden, compounded by HIV co-infection, poverty, and limited healthcare access in rural areas.
High TB Incidence
Namibia is among the WHO's top 30 high TB burden countries, with a TB incidence of approximately 423 per 100,000 people.
TB-HIV Co-infection
A significant proportion of TB cases in Namibia are among people living with HIV, making diagnosis and treatment more complex.
Rural Challenges
Many communities in Namibia — like Tsumkwe and the Omaheke region — face severe barriers to healthcare access, including distance and lack of transport.
Stigma & Discrimination
Fear and social stigma continue to prevent many Namibians from seeking TB testing and treatment, leading to delayed diagnosis and increased transmission.
Progress & Hope
Through dedicated advocacy, community health workers, and partnerships with organizations like TB Free Foundation, Namibia is making strides toward ending TB.
Civil Society Voice
TB Free Foundation serves as a crucial bridge between communities and government, ensuring that the voices of TB-affected people are heard in policy discussions.
Take Action
How You Can Make a Difference
Every action counts in the fight against tuberculosis. Whether you spread the word, volunteer your time, or contribute financially, your support helps save lives.
Spread the Word
Share TB facts on social media. Use the hashtag #EndTB and #WorldTBDay to amplify the message.
Volunteer
Join TB Free Foundation as a volunteer. Help with community outreach, events, or administrative support.
Donate
Your generous donation funds e-bikes for rural healthcare workers, awareness campaigns, and advocacy programs.