Kenya continues to face a heavy tuberculosis burden, with 90,900 people diagnosed and started on treatment in 2025, covering roughly four out of every five estimated cases.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale revealed on Tuesday during the 2026 World TB Day activities at the University of Nairobi Graduation Square that men account for 63 per cent of infections, urging tailored approaches to encourage early testing, better health-seeking behaviour, and strong community participation.
“This gap represents lives missed, families affected, and ongoing transmission within our communities. As a government, we are committed to closing this gap,” Duale said.
The day’s events, themed “Yes! We Can End TB Led by Government, Driven by Communities,” highlighted the critical need for a coordinated response led by the government but driven by active involvement of communities in prevention, detection, and treatment.
Despite the high caseload, Kenya has recorded major achievements over the past decade, reducing TB infections by 45 per cent and TB-related deaths by 58 per cent since 2015. Duale credited these gains to consistent government support, strong county partnerships, and collaborations across multiple sectors.
To reach more patients and improve early treatment, the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with county governments, has rolled out TB services across all 47 counties. The initiative includes molecular diagnostic tools and ultraportable AI-powered digital X-ray machines, enabling testing even in the most remote locations.
“These innovations are enabling early and accurate detection, even in remote areas, as we take services closer to the people in line with Universal Health Coverage,” Duale said.
Duale highlighted that tackling TB requires more than medical interventions. The disease is often linked to poor living conditions, malnutrition, overcrowding, and other environmental factors. The government is therefore implementing a multi-sectoral strategy, which includes improving housing, boosting nutrition, and extending screening and treatment in high-risk communities and workplaces.
Given that men account for most infections, the Health CS called for gender-responsive measures such as workplace health programmes, community outreach, and digital self-screening platforms to encourage early care-seeking.
He further emphasised public awareness campaigns to reduce stigma, improve treatment adherence, and promote household screening.
“TB is curable, and services are available across the country. No one should delay seeking care due to fear or discrimination,” he said.
Community health promoters, faith leaders, civil society groups, and TB survivors were recognised for their role in identifying missed cases, supporting treatment, and promoting behaviour change at the grassroots level.
“Ending TB is about protecting households, sustaining a productive workforce, and advancing Universal Health Coverage. As the government leads, we will continue to work with communities to ensure no one is left behind,” Duale said.
He reiterated that the government will continue prioritising TB elimination as both a health and development goal, noting that the Taifa Care Model will ensure remaining gaps in diagnosis and treatment are addressed and that services are accessible to all.