25 March 2025 by Monyane Khau

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Health Minister Selibe Mochoboroane says 13 out of every 100 Basotho die of tuberculosis (TB) due to delays in seeking medical care.

Mochoboroane notes that, on average, a person must visit a healthcare facility at least three times before receiving a proper TB diagnosis.

“This delay, combined with health-seeking behavior, contributes to a 13 percent fatality rate, with an additional 4 percent lost to follow-up,” he said.

He further highlighted that Lesotho’s TB detection rate remains alarmingly low at just 42 percent. As a result, more than half of TB cases go undiagnosed and untreated, increasing the risk of further transmission.

Mochoboroane made these remarks during World TB Day commemorations on March 24, 2025, in Maseru, Lesotho. He said the country is using the occasion to reaffirm its commitment to tackling TB with urgency, improving detection and treatment outcomes, and ensuring no one is left behind.

He emphasised the need to increase public awareness of TB—its causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment—to strengthen the country’s response.

He also highlighted the importance of boosting investment in TB prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and research. Strengthening partnerships between governments, healthcare providers, civil society organisations, and communities is another key strategy to enhance TB control efforts.

“Addressing the social determinants of TB—such as poverty, gender inequality, and limited access to healthcare—is crucial for ensuring equitable TB services for all. We must also celebrate success stories and best practices that are helping reduce TB incidence and mortality,” he said.

He concluded by indicating that Lesotho will hold a national TB symposium on April 2 2025, followed by a community commemoration event in Maputsoe on April 4, 2025.