People and entire regions affected by tuberculosis (TB) in the world are now being impacted more than ever. It is heart-breaking to terminate a project because of lack of resources and not because it’s no longer needed. USAID Stop Work Order is leaving millions of people with TB without access to treatment and care.
USAID Stop Work Order disruptive like COVID-19 pandemic
The sudden implementation of the USAID Stop Work Order and termination of awards has triggered the disruption of global health programs that save lives. The impact of this abrupt decision is comparable or worse than the disruptions seen during the COVID-19 pandemic: Millions of children, adolescents, and communities are being left without access to essential diagnosis, treatment, and prevention services.
For decades, American taxpayers have played an instrumental role in saving millions of lives through USAID and other funding mechanisms. This has been achieved with programs that strengthen health systems, and advance efforts to tackle cross-border health threats. These investments have not only improved health outcomes worldwide but also contributed to global security, economic stability, and strengthened partnerships among countries with contrasting TB burden.
Current global funding crisis is an imminent challenge
TB, HIV, malaria and other global health threats can be ended, but the current global funding crisis is an imminent challenge.
“TB cases anywhere are TB cases everywhere, and nobody is safe until everyone is safe”
Time for action is now!
If we want a world where we and our children can thrive, play, work, travel and enjoy a fulfilling life, the time for action is now!
Global support has proven to be invaluable, and we at KNCV have witnessed the power of international collaboration, so we need to:
- Mobilize emergency funding and bridge the critical funding gap to sustain TB, HIV, and malaria programs; and
- Support countries in building resilient healthcare infrastructures through investments and innovative financing mechanisms.
Governments of high TB burden countries need to step up
Today it is also necessary that governments of high TB burden countries step up their responsibility for health financing and system strengthening. The long-term sustainability of disease control programs depends on domestic investment, political will, and strong health systems that are resilient to global funding fluctuations. We urge national governments to:
- Increase domestic financing for TB, HIV, and malaria to reduce dependency on external funding.
- Strengthen health systems by ensuring adequate human resources, diagnostic capacity, and uninterrupted supply chains for essential medicines.
- Prioritize universal health coverage to protect vulnerable populations and ensure equitable access to care.
As an organization we will continue working towards our goal: a world free from TB and related diseases. We maintain our commitment to work with all interest-holders—affected communities, governments, donors, civil society and private sector—to mitigate the impact of this crisis at every level. We will continue to provide technical assistance, advocate for urgent action, and support national programs in maintaining essential services where and when possible.
Global leaders, private sector, and philanthropists must act urgently—before countless lives are lost. The world is at a turning point—bold leadership and decisive action today will save lives and safeguard the future of global health.
Mustapha Gidado, Executive Director KNCV Tuberculosis Foundation