30 June 2025

Community-Led Solutions Strengthen SAs Fight against TB

Tuberculosis (TB) continues to be a major public health crisis in South Africa, claiming 148 lives daily. Despite being preventable and curable, TB remains a challenge due to stigma, limited awareness, and barriers in accessing healthcare.

Health experts emphasise that defeating TB requires more than clinic-based care — it demands a collaborative, community-driven approach. According to public health specialists, communities are often the first line of defence in raising awareness, promoting testing, and supporting treatment.

In high-burden areas like Delft and Elsies River in the Western Cape, community members are stepping up. With support from the organisation TB Proof, individuals with personal experiences of TB, or a commitment to health advocacy, are leading efforts to bridge the gap between national policies and local action.

These initiatives align with SAs National Strategic Plan for HIV, TB, and STIs (2023–2028), which promotes testing for close contacts of TB patients, people living with HIV, and those previously treated for TB — regardless of symptoms. Successful implementation depends heavily on local leadership.

Launched in August 2023, the TB Champions programme trains community leaders in TB education, communication, and advocacy. Since January 2025, TB Champions have conducted campaigns in schools, clinics, workplaces, and faith-based spaces. Their work includes hosting testing drives and sharing information about TBs airborne transmission and the importance of early diagnosis.

According to TB Champion Tracey Visagie, her efforts focus on helping people living with HIV access TB testing and treatment, ensuring they stay in care. Daniel du Plessis, another Champion, highlights that his role involves speaking publicly to encourage community testing. Meanwhile, TB survivor Bravo Thompson uses his story to challenge the stigma, explaining that open conversations help others seek care without fear.

In addition to TB Champions, health committees play a vital role. These volunteer-led groups organise local campaigns, raise concerns with clinic management, and advocate for better services. However, experts note that lack of formal support and funding limits their full potential.

Research consistently shows that community-led health initiatives improve service access, patient satisfaction, and treatment outcomes. Public health advocates argue that investing in community leaders is a cost-effective strategy that enhances TB prevention and care.

Ultimately, addressing TB requires more than medicine — it demands empowering communities to be central partners in the fight to save lives.