The National Network of Associations Fighting Tuberculosis in Senegal convened its triennial General Assembly on May 2, 2026, providing an opportunity to assess progress and outline priorities in the country’s ongoing battle against the disease. While notable gains have been recorded in recent years, stakeholders warn that stigma continues to undermine efforts to eliminate tuberculosis by 2030.
Speaking at the gathering, the network’s coordinator, Adama Niang, highlighted a sustained commitment to combating tuberculosis in collaboration with key partners, including the Global Fund. Although he did not disclose detailed statistics, Niang pointed to “significant progress” achieved over the past three years, driven by intensified interventions and expanded access to care.
“We are engaged in a dynamic and determined fight, with the goal of eliminating tuberculosis by 2030,” he said.
Despite these advances, Niang identified social stigma as a persistent and critical obstacle. Many people, he noted, still perceive tuberculosis as a shameful disease, discouraging those affected from seeking timely diagnosis and treatment.
“Stigma is a major barrier. It slows down our efforts considerably because people are reluctant to come forward,” he explained. “Yet tuberculosis is a disease that can be treated and completely cured.”
Health authorities in Senegal have made treatment widely accessible and free of charge across all public health facilities. According to Niang, once a diagnosis is confirmed, patients are immediately enrolled in care and can achieve full recovery after six months of consistent treatment.
However, public awareness remains insufficient. Niang revealed that only 51.6 percent of Senegal’s population has a clear understanding of tuberculosis, a gap
that continues to fuel misconceptions and delayed care-seeking behavior.
“If we can raise awareness levels to between 80 and 90 percent, we will see a significant decline in the disease,” he said.
The epidemiological profile of tuberculosis in Senegal is also evolving. Previously concentrated in suburban areas, where nearly 44 percent of cases were recorded, the disease is now more widely distributed. Dakar currently accounts for approximately 40 percent of reported cases, reflecting both population density and ongoing transmission dynamics.
Urban poor communities remain the most affected, largely due to overcrowded living conditions and limited access to basic services, factors that facilitate the spread of the airborne infection.
In response, health advocates are emphasizing the importance of early detection. Niang urged individuals experiencing a persistent cough lasting more than two weeks to seek medical attention promptly.
“Testing is free, and so is treatment. Early diagnosis is essential not only for recovery but also to prevent further transmission,” he stressed.
Ultimately, Niang underscored that defeating tuberculosis will require more than medical interventions alone. Changing public perceptions and reducing stigma are equally vital components of the response.
“We must inform, educate, and reassure people,” he concluded. “Tuberculosis is not a death sentence, it is a curable disease.”
Ornéla ZANGA/ The Daily
