The discussion reviewed Pakistan’s progress since the UN high-level meeting on TB in 2023, identifying persistent challenges in TB notification and treatment, especially within underprivileged communities
By Imtiaz Hussain
SUKKUR: Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, First Lady of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, has reaffirmed her dedication to fighting Tuberculosis (TB) both within Pakistan and on the global stage. This commitment was underscored during a high-level meeting with leaders from the Dopasi Foundation and a delegation of distinguished parliamentarians.
The meeting, led by Dr. Shazia Sobia Aslam Soomro and featuring representatives from the Dopasi Foundation, was a strategic discussion focused on addressing Pakistan’s significant TB burden. The delegation included CEO Ms. Kinz-ul-Eman, Dr. Usman Rasool Lodhi (Program Manager), Dr. Tilal Asif (Director of Programs), Ms. Mishaal Javed (Manager of Communications), and Dr. Syed Karam Shah (Senior Technical Advisor and head of the Stop TB Partnership Pakistan). Parliamentarians present included Dr. Mehreen Bhutto, Ms. Sehar Kamran, Khursheed Junejo, and Musarat Rafique, who are actively engaged in the TB fight.
The discussion reviewed Pakistan’s progress since the United Nations High-Level Meeting on TB in 2023, identifying persistent challenges in TB notification and treatment, especially within underprivileged communities. In a significant announcement, Bhutto Zardari declared her role as a champion for TB advocacy. “I am proud to lend my voice to the fight against TB. This battle is not merely a health issue but a matter of dignity and justice for millions affected by this preventable disease. Together, we can forge a future where no one is left behind and everyone has access to the care and support they deserve,” she asserted.
The meeting also covered the upcoming Regional Leaders’ Summit 2024 on TB and Climate Change and the TB Survivors Event, where Bhutto Zardari accepted the role of chair. She committed to advocating for the rights of TB survivors and ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare across all provinces. The First Lady commended the End TB Parliamentary Caucus, led by Dr. Shazia Sobia Aslam Soomro, for its efforts in strengthening TB advocacy. This initiative, hosted by the Dopasi Foundation in collaboration with the Stop TB Partnership, aims to enhance cross-provincial collaboration and mobilize broader participation from parliamentarians nationwide.
The Dopasi Foundation, a leading non-profit organization in Pakistan, continues to spearhead TB control and health interventions. Through strategic partnerships with the Ministry of Health and global stakeholders, the Foundation is making significant progress toward achieving Pakistan’s TB health targets, particularly among marginalized populations. Bhutto Zardari’s reaffirmed commitment underscores a renewed push towards ending TB and improving health outcomes for all affected individuals.
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