Cameroon recorded a significant number of tuberculosis cases in 2025, highlighting the need for increased efforts to combat the disease. According to the National Tuberculosis Control Program, 26,924 cases of tuberculosis, in all forms, were reported in the country in 2025. Among these cases, 9.6% were children, and 170 were multi-resistant forms.
The Minister of Public Health, Malachie Manaouda, released these figures on March 19, 2026, indicating that the incidence rate of the disease is estimated at 132 new cases per 100,000 inhabitants, representing approximately 36,466 expected cases. Mortality is estimated at 17 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants. The prison population remains a priority target, with 732 cases detected and managed.
The data comes from the work of health personnel in the field, allowing for monitoring of the evolution of the tuberculosis control strategy in Cameroon. Community activities contributed to 14.7% of detections, and co-infection of tuberculosis and HIV is decreasing, estimated at 15%, with over 98% of affected patients placed on antiretroviral treatment.
The country has a diagnostic network covering the entire territory, including 340 functional microscope centers, 75 GeneXpert platforms, 56 TB-LAMP devices, 35 TRUENAT equipment, and two specialized laboratories. However, challenges persist, including under-reporting of cases and still insufficient active case finding. Contact tracing, private sector involvement, equipment maintenance, and the availability of consumables also require additional effort.
On the occasion of the 33rd World Tuberculosis Day, celebrated on March 24, 2026, the world reflects on the theme "Yes, we can end TB". The World Health Organization (WHO) insists on the urgency to act and the possibility of reversing the epidemic, which kills approximately 4,000 people worldwide each day and affects approximately 30,000 new people daily. The WHO calls for strong leadership, increased investment, and new recommendations to strengthen the fight against tuberculosis.
Cameroon, ranked among the 30 countries with the highest tuberculosis burden in the world, has set a goal to eliminate tuberculosis by 2030. To achieve this ambitious goal, the country will need to intensify its efforts in screening, early diagnosis, and appropriate treatment of patients.
