Minister of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi has stressed the urgent need for innovative solutions to combat tuberculosis (TB), a disease that has historically affected not only South Africa but countries around the world.

“We are here because we believe that TB – a disease that has shaped the history and health of our country and indeed, the whole world – can be ended. Not through words alone, but through action, partnership, and innovation,“ he said on Thursday.

The minister was delivering the keynote address at the country’s TB Vaccine Preparedness Workshop in Johannesburg. The workshop aims to advance policy and decision-making for the introduction of TB vaccines.

Protecting the most vulnerable

Addressing policymakers, scientists and community leaders, Motsoaledi said the upcoming phase will introduce preventative TB vaccination measures, which will also support the fight against HIV and Aids.

For over a century, South Africa has relied on the Bacille Calmette-Guérin vaccine to protect children from TB, but the minister pointed out that there has been no tool to protect adolescents and adults.

“These are the very groups most at risk of getting sick and transmitting TB,” he said.

With several new TB vaccine candidates in the late stages of clinical trials, the most promising options are expected to be available in the next few years.

The workshop positioned South Africa as one of the first countries ready to deliver a new generation of TB vaccines to the most vulnerable populations, including adolescents and adults.

Ending ‘slavery’ of disease

The minister expressed confidence that upcoming trials would yield positive results, potentially leading to a new vaccine for older age groups.

TB remains a leading cause of death from infectious disease and a major contributor to poor health both locally and globally.

“Imagine the day when we announce the availability of the vaccine for tuberculosis,” he said, likening it to ‘the day of true freedom from slavery’ for those affected.

Motsoaledi described the disease as a form of ‘devastating slavery’ that fuels poverty and premature death.

“South Africa is not waiting for the world to act. We are preparing – intentionally, early and inclusively.”

Commitment to readiness

The minister used the country’s first national gathering on TB vaccine readiness to reaffirm South Africa’s leadership in the global fight against TB and HIV.

“When South Africa wins against TB and HIV and Aids the world will win the war,” he said.

He noted that throughout his tenure, he has sought to elevate TB on the global health agenda, recalling his 2018 address at the United Nations calling for world leaders to act.

“While global attention has often turned to emerging health threats, South Africa has remained focused on the enduring challenge of TB,” he said.

He also acknowledged the devastating impact of TB on communities already battling HIV.

Systems, trust and investment

“Today’s discussions remind us that vaccine introduction is not just about science – it is about health systems. It is about trust. It is about readiness.”

Motsoaledi emphasised the importance of preparing the health sector for the rollout, saying the agenda highlighted key areas such as evidence generation, delivery systems, and supply chain readiness.

“Investment in human life means everything,” he said, calling for strong financial backing and stakeholder support.

He urged participants to build community trust and advocate for broad acceptance of the new vaccine.

“We must walk the path with our people,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

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