World Tuberculosis Day 2025: A Call to Action in Kiribati

BAIRIKI, TARAWA, 24 March, 2025.

The theme for World Tuberculosis (TB) Day 2025, “Yes, We Can End TB,” is a powerful statement from the World Health Organization (WHO) that emphasizes the urgency and collective effort needed to combat this global health challenge. The theme underscores the need for global commitment, investment, and action to eliminate TB once and for all. This year’s observance highlights the crucial role of public awareness, early detection, and sustained intervention in tackling the disease. In Kiribati, this message is especially pertinent as the nation faces a concerning rise in TB cases despite the availability of effective treatments.

Rising TB Cases in Kiribati

Recent reports from Kiribati’s TB Office indicate an alarming increase in the number of TB cases across the islands. Despite the fact that TB is a treatable disease, the number of cases continues to grow. This trend is concerning, as TB is both preventable and curable when detected early and treated properly. The Kiribati Ministry of Health has acknowledged these challenges and has joined forces with global initiatives to tackle TB on both local and international fronts.

WHO’s Global Commitment to Ending TB

The WHO has set ambitious targets to end TB worldwide by 2030, with a focus on accelerating efforts between 2023 and 2027. The global health organization reported that, since 2000, 79 million people have been cured of TB, but the battle is far from over. In 2023 alone, an estimated 1.8 million people contracted TB, and 1.25 million lives were lost to the disease. These statistics underscore the importance of continued commitment to global TB eradication efforts, as well as the need for increased investment in TB prevention and treatment programs.

The WHO’s 2025 World TB Day theme, “Yes, We Can End TB through Collective Efforts to Commit, Invest, and Deliver,” serves as a rallying cry for governments, health organizations, and communities to work together in the fight against TB. Kiribati’s efforts to address the rising TB cases align with this global call to action, demonstrating that every community can play a pivotal role in eliminating the disease.

Kiribati’s Response to the TB Crisis

In response to the growing TB burden, Kiribati has implemented several initiatives to combat the disease and raise awareness. Mrs. Bereka Tinian Reiher, the TB Coordinator in Kiribati, highlighted the country’s ongoing efforts, which include outreach programs and public awareness campaigns aimed at educating the population about TB prevention, early detection, and treatment. On March 24, 2025, Kiribati marked World TB Day with an event in the capital, Bairiki, where the community was engaged through informational sessions, screenings, and educational activities.

Despite these efforts, Mrs. Reiher expressed concern that the results of these public awareness programs have not been as effective as hoped, especially in light of the continued rise in TB cases. This highlights the importance of not only raising awareness but also ensuring that individuals take action when they experience symptoms of the disease.

Outreach and Education

Throughout 2025, the Kiribati Ministry of Health has intensified its efforts to combat TB through a series of outreach activities. These included school visits for TB screenings, immunizations, and health education sessions targeting both students and teachers. The health promotion unit, with funding support from the Pearl and Australian governments, also conducted roadshows across the islands to further spread the message about TB prevention and treatment.

Additionally, the Ministry has been visiting households to inform residents about the importance of early detection and the steps they can take to prevent the spread of TB. Mrs. Reiher emphasized the need for prompt action when symptoms such as coughing, fever, weight loss, and loss of appetite appear. The public is encouraged to seek immediate medical attention at local clinics or visit the TB office in Nawerewere if they suspect they may have contracted TB.

A Unified Effort to End TB in Kiribati

Mrs. Reiher concluded with a strong call for community involvement, stating that ending TB in Kiribati will require a collective effort from all sectors of society. Public health campaigns are essential, but individuals must also play an active role in spreading awareness and seeking medical care if they suspect they are infected. The success of Kiribati’s TB response hinges on early diagnosis, effective treatment, and a shared commitment to eradicating the disease.

As Kiribati moves forward in its battle against TB, the WHO’s 2025 World TB Day theme serves as a reminder that “Yes, We Can End TB”—but only if governments, health organizations, and communities work together to create a world free from the burden of tuberculosis.