World should focus on fighting tuberculosis

US President Donald Trump's spending freeze on foreign aid marks a significant challenge for the international development community, and many experts warn that diseases will surge. During these times of uncertainty about the future role of the world's biggest donor, the Global Fund stands as a beacon of hope. Since the beginning of this millennium, the Geneva-based multilateral organization has been fighting one of humanity's oldest scourges, infectious diseases — specifically the three big killers, malaria, HIV and tuberculosis.

Through targeted funding and innovative strategies, the Global Fund has made significant breakthroughs in malaria and HIV treatment. The time is ripe now for the Global Fund to sharpen its focus on tuberculosis.

Nearly one-third of the Global Fund's 2023-25 budget, totaling about $4.17 billion, has been allocated to the fight against malaria. These funds have supported large-scale distribution of insecticide-treated bed nets and conducting of rapid diagnostic tests, drastically reducing transmission rates. As a result, countries such as Rwanda and Zambia have seen a remarkable decline in malaria cases and deaths.