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the Amathole District Municipality (ADM) District AIDS Council hosted a TB advocacy workshop at the Department of Health offices in East London on 08 November 2025, bringing together representatives from all local municipalities within the district. The session aimed to strengthen the fight against tuberculosis (TB) through community engagement, education, and policy advocacy.
What Happened?
The workshop focused on improving coordination among members of the District TB Advocacy Team, which leads public health initiatives under the “End TB Campaign.” Participants discussed practical strategies to boost early TB testing, treatment adherence, and public awareness across the district.
Key areas of focus included community outreach, health education, and policy collaboration with civil society groups and researchers. Teams shared progress on door-to-door visits, counseling services, and preventive therapy programs designed to stop TB transmission at the community level.
The initiative forms part of ADM’s ongoing health drive to integrate HIV and TB response strategies, ensuring that both remain top public health priorities.
Official Response
An official from the Amathole District AIDS Council highlighted the importance of advocacy in the TB response.
“Ending TB requires strong partnerships and active community participation. This workshop helps us ensure that our advocacy translates into real impact at grassroots level,” the official said.
The Department of Health commended the collaborative effort, noting that the district’s advocacy approach aligns with national goals to end TB by 2035.
Community Impact
The strengthened TB advocacy drive is expected to increase awareness and reduce stigma surrounding the disease. By expanding health education and improving access to testing, the district aims to reach more households — particularly in rural and underserved areas.
Community members welcomed the renewed effort, saying it brings hope for better health outcomes and stronger support for families affected by TB
