Health authorities say 8,735 tuberculosis cases were recorded in 2025; drug-resistant TB cure rate hit 81% the prior year
BUJUMBURA, Burundi — Burundi’s Ministry of Public Health convened a press briefing Monday to mark World Tuberculosis Day, presenting data showing strong treatment outcomes while acknowledging persistent challenges in reaching patients before the disease spreads.
The briefing, organized through the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Program, disclosed that 8,735 tuberculosis cases were recorded in Burundi in 2025, of which 5,550 were classified as contagious forms of the disease. Officials said 97.7% of diagnosed patients were tested for HIV, with 5.7% returning positive results and immediately receiving appropriate care.
Paul Ntisinzira, communications officer for the program, described the results as encouraging. The national cure rate reached 93% in 2024, he said.
“Yes! We can end tuberculosis! Country-led! Powered by us!” — World TB Day 2026 theme
Drug-Resistant Cases Show Improved Outcomes
Forty-four cases of drug-resistant tuberculosis were identified and treated in 2025, according to Ntisinzira. The cure rate for that more difficult-to-treat category reached 81% in 2024, a figure health officials described as noteworthy given the complexity of treatment protocols involved.
Late Consultation Remains Key Obstacle
Despite the positive indicators, health authorities identified delayed care-seeking as a major ongoing challenge. Many patients consult health facilities only after symptoms have progressed, raising the risk of community transmission, officials said.
Dr. Joselyne Nsanzerugeze, head of the national program, urged Burundians to seek medical attention as soon as initial symptoms appear and to adopt preventive measures.
“Early consultation from the first symptoms is essential,” Nsanzerugeze said during the briefing.
Burundi has set a goal of eliminating tuberculosis by 2030, a target health authorities say is achievable through collective commitment and leadership at the national level. The ambition aligns with this year’s World TB Day theme: “Yes! We can end tuberculosis! Country-led! Powered by us!”
The official national commemoration of World Tuberculosis Day is scheduled for Tuesday, March 24, 2026, in Bujumbura.
