The Ministry of Health and Social Protection commemorates World Tuberculosis Day, joining countries worldwide in this initiative, which this year adopts the theme, “TB Beyond the Lungs: Let’s Raise Awareness of Extrapulmonary Forms.” This aims to shed light on the lesser-known aspects of this disease and enhance national mobilization to combat it.
The occasion seeks to intensify efforts to raise awareness about tuberculosis, encourage citizens to seek health services early, and support health professionals in identifying and effectively managing extrapulmonary forms. The 2026 edition notably focuses on strengthening detection and comprehensive management of various forms of the disease, paying particular attention to the extrapulmonary types that remain widely unknown and are often difficult to diagnose, despite their notable presence in the national epidemiological landscape.
This approach responds to concerning data, as statistics indicate that 53% of newly recorded tuberculosis cases in Morocco during 2025 pertain to extrapulmonary forms, necessitating heightened clinical vigilance among health professionals and increased health awareness efforts to improve early diagnosis and ensure proper management of cases.
In line with enhancing the scientific dimension of this occasion, the ministry plans to hold a national scientific webinar on Thursday, March 26, 2026, featuring officials and experts in the health field, alongside representatives from scientific associations, non-governmental organizations, and international bodies. This webinar will serve as a platform to discuss the epidemiological situation of tuberculosis in Morocco, present the latest developments in the diagnosis and treatment of extrapulmonary forms, as well as share experiences and strengthen capacities.
The Ministry of Health and Social Protection emphasized that the fight against tuberculosis remains a priority within public health policies, as part of the implementation of the national strategic plan for the period 2024-2030. This plan aims to reduce the mortality rate by 60% and decrease the incidence rate by 35% by 2030. It focuses on enhancing early detection, improving treatment success rates, expanding preventive treatment, and adopting a multi-sectoral approach to strengthen health governance.
In this context, the ministry continues its efforts to improve access to detection and diagnostic services, enhance health professionals’ capacities, ensure treatment is free within health institutions, and expand partnerships with various national and international stakeholders.
The ministry reiterated that tuberculosis is a preventable and treatable disease, given early diagnosis and adherence to the treatment protocol. It calls upon all stakeholders, including health professionals, institutions, civil society, and the media, to bolster their commitment and engage in national efforts to reduce the spread of this disease in Morocco.
