Deputy President Mashatile Keynotes World TB Day 2026 in Western Cape

Deputy President Paul Mashatile, who chairs the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC), will give the keynote address at the national World TB Day commemorative event on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. The event takes place at Caledon Sports Grounds on Ian Toerin Way in the Overberg District of the Western Cape Province. It aims to raise public awareness about tuberculosis, a major global health problem.

South Africa faces a severe TB crisis. The disease stands as the leading cause of death in the country. It claims around 56,000 lives each year. More than half of those deaths, about 54 percent, occur among people living with HIV. These facts show why events like this one matter so much.

People mark World TB Day every year on March 24. The date helps build awareness about the global TB epidemic. It spotlights work to wipe out the disease. The day also stresses TB’s heavy toll on health, society, and the economy.

This year’s theme sends a strong message:

Yes! You and I Can End TB

The theme calls on leaders to push TB efforts in their areas. It urges every South African to take personal steps against the disease. The commemoration backs the National TB Strategic Plan. It highlights the End TB Campaign, which seeks to test five million people each year. The campaign relies on wider testing, combined health services, clear messaging, community involvement, strong partnerships, and more money for prevention, treatment, and research.

Deputy President Mashatile will not attend alone. Many key figures join him at the event. Here are the main attendees:

• Minister of Health, Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi
• Western Cape Premier Alan Winde
• SANAC Civil Society Chairperson, Solly Nduku
• Chairperson of the SANAC Private Sector Forum, Mpumi Zikalala
• SANAC CEO, Dr. Thembi Xulu
• Representatives from United Nations agencies
• Representatives from research groups
• Representatives from civil society movements
• Representatives from the private sector