Theewaterskloof Municipality proudly took centre stage in the national fight against tuberculosis as the 2026 World TB Day commemoration took place in Caledon on 24 March 2026. The event brought together the Honourable Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, Mr Paul Mashatile, alongside national and provincial leaders, healthcare professionals, partner organisations and community members in a powerful show of unity and commitment to ending TB.
Held under the theme “Yes! You and I Can End TB,” the event brought together key stakeholders in the fight against tuberculosis, reinforcing the importance of collaboration, awareness and community-driven action in addressing one of South Africa’s most pressing public health challenges.
Deputy Mayor, Alderman Cynthia Clayton, who delivered the official welcome address, reflected on both the significance of hosting the event in Theewaterskloof and her personal connection to the cause as a former nurse.
“As a former nurse, this is not just a responsibility I carry as Deputy Mayor, it is a calling shaped by the people and stories I have encountered over many years. Behind every statistic is a human being and it is our collective duty to ensure that no one faces this journey alone,” said Deputy Mayor Clayton.
She further emphasised the importance of continued awareness and community support, noting that the fight against TB extends beyond healthcare facilities into homes and communities.
Delivering the keynote address, the Honourable Deputy President Paul Mashatile underscored the urgency of strengthening South Africa’s response to tuberculosis.
“South Africa remains one of the hardest hit countries by TB, which has remained the leading cause of death… and we must amplify our efforts to eliminate this disease,” said Deputy President Mashatile.
He noted that while progress has been made, significant challenges remain.
“We have achieved a 17% reduction compared to 2015, far short of the 75% target we set for ourselves. This gap reminds us that lives are still being lost unnecessarily and we must do much more to turn the tide.”
The Deputy President further highlighted the socio-economic impact of the disease:
“The 2021 TB Survey showed that 56% of people affected by TB in our country continue to face catastrophic socio-economic constraints that push families into poverty. We cannot ignore this human and economic toll.”
Calling for a more inclusive and accessible approach, he stressed the need for patient-centred care:
“We need to make our response more patient-centred, meeting people where they are and removing all barriers against access to testing and treatment.”
Emphasising prevention and early diagnosis, he added:
“We must find TB, to end TB. Early detection is the key to breaking the cycle of infection and protecting families and communities.”
Drawing lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, the Deputy President encouraged renewed urgency and collaboration:
“We can draw valuable lessons from our COVID-19 response: rapid action, community engagement and strong leadership. We must apply those same principles to TB.”
He also made a targeted appeal for increased testing, particularly among men:
“I want to make a special call today to men: please get tested for TB. Our data shows clearly that many of the missing cases are among men.”
Individuals who may have been exposed to TB are encouraged to seek immediate medical attention and complete treatment as prescribed.
Theewaterskloof Municipality extends its sincere appreciation to all dignitaries, healthcare workers, organisations and community members who participated in this important commemoration.
Hosting this national event reaffirms the municipality’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote public health, strengthen community awareness and contribute to the national effort to end tuberculosis.
ENDS
Issued by:
Theewaterskloof Municipality, Communications Department