Despite the relatively low number of tuberculosis (TB) cases in the country, Namibia ranks 11th globally in terms of TB incidence and per capita expenditure on TB treatment. 

The Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr. Kalumbi Shangula, emphasised that the emergence of multidrug-resistant TB poses a significant health challenge for the country. 

Dr. Shangula made these remarks during the discussion of the Appropriation Bill at the committee stage.

Tuberculosis (TB) infection remains a major health challenge in Tsumkwe.

The health facilities in the area continue to record a higher number of new infections, with the Drug Resistant TB strain being the highest compared to elsewhere in the country.  

To resolve the situation, the Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS) has deployed groups of health workers who move from village to village to create awareness about TB. 

The healthcare workers also collect sputum samples from community members who are coughing, for diagnosis.