TB-HIV Link Emphasised In Uganda Event

Main Category: Tuberculosis
Also Included In: HIV / AIDS;  Respiratory / Asthma
Article Date: 20 May 2009 - 4:00 PDT

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"I am stopping TB and controlling HIV" was the theme of an event marking World TB Day (24 March) in Uganda's Masindi district. The Union Uganda Office participated in this event, which attracted representatives from both government and a wide variety of NGOs, as well as the public.

World TB Day is a joint TB-HIV event in Masindi District, Uganda

"I am stopping TB and controlling HIV" was the theme chosen by Uganda to commemorate World TB Day on Tuesday, 24 March 2009. The function was held at Boma grounds in the district of Masindi and was attended by a wide variety of organisations and government and district representatives working in TB and TB/HIV, as well as the general public.

District leaders not only attended in large numbers, but they also made moving speeches that demonstrated their understanding of TB -- a credit to the mobilisation and sensitisation activities carried out by the district health team. During his speech, the National TB Programme manager noted that this was the first time he had seen the district political as well as technical leaders fully participate in the commemoration of the World TB Day. Thanks were given to the TB CAP (TB Control Assistance Program) for its financial support of the event. TB CAP is USAID's centrally funded project supporting the implementation of the international Stop TB strategy, which is coordinated by The Union in Uganda.

The Honorable Kabakumba Masiko, Minister for Information and National Guidance, was the event's chief guest. She spoke with passion about the individual's role in TB control and challenged those present to go and have free screening for TB if they have cough for two weeks or more. She also promised to champion the Stop TB campaign in cabinet and parliament. The chief guest then launched the new TB logo -- special signage to help patients easily identify TB diagnostic and treatment units -- and referral directories designed to help health workers identify the nearest health facilities where patients can receive TB and HIV services. She visited stalls, including that of The Union Uganda Office (TBCAP), and was happy to note that the documents displayed had been disseminated down to the implementers.

Source
WHO

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