Every year, on March 24th, World Tuberculosis Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm across our Islands, alongside the rest of the country, under the theme: ” Yes! We can end TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver”.
World Tuberculosis Day serves as a crucial opportunity to raise awareness about the significant health, social and economic impacts of tuberculosis, while also amplifying global efforts to end the TB epidemic.
Tuberculosis continues to be a major public health challenge, affecting millions worldwide and impacting families, workplaces, and entire communities. Through investment in prevention, early detection and effective treatment, we can break the cycle of transmission and save countless lives. Conquering TB requires strong leadership, innovative solutions and sustainable investments in both healthcare and community support.
It is essential that we engage communities, organizations, healthcare workers and citizens alike in this collective fight. Strengthening health systems, improving access to care and addressing social determinants such as nutrition and living conditions are critical steps toward a TB-free future.
I urge institutions and individuals from all sectors of society to step forward and lend their support to the cause to TB elimination. Together, we can make significant strides in eradicating tuberculosis from our Islands and beyond.
Sd/-
(Admiral D K Joshi)
PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd.)
Lieutenant Governor, A&N Islands
&
Vice Chairman, Islands Development Agency
