KARACHI: The United States and Pakistan have launched a joint initiative to address tuberculosis (TB), a significant health challenge in Sindh province of the South Asian country.
The joint initiative, named the Tuberculosis Local Organization Network (TB-LON), funded by the US Agency for International Development (USAID), aims to invest $9 million over five years to provide expert guidance and resources to combat TB effectively.
The US Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome has launched the collaborative initiative in a ceremony attended by the Sindh health minister and other officials.
The US Ambassador highlighted the significance of this partnership in tackling TB, recognizing the disease’s impact on individuals and communities in Pakistan.
Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho, the Sindh Minister for Health and Population, appreciated the ongoing support from the US government and reiterated the commitment of the Sindh government to improve healthcare services.
This initiative is crucial, considering TB’s status as a leading infectious disease killer globally and Pakistan’s position as one of the high TB burden countries. The involvement of local communities is emphasized, recognizing its pivotal role in achieving sustainable and effective outcomes in TB control efforts.
