Online Reporter
Diana Nherera
Gweru Mayor Councillor Martin Chivhoko has urged residents to participate in an upcoming tuberculosis (TB) screening campaign, saying the disease remains a public health concern despite being both preventable and curable when detected early.
Speaking while chairing a full council meeting yesterday, Mayor Chivhoko announced that the City of Gweru will roll out a comprehensive TB diagnosis and screening programme from June to the end of September 2026.
The campaign will target high-density suburbs, including Mkoba, Mtapa and Senga, where trained community health workers will conduct door-to-door screenings.
“Tuberculosis remains a threat in our community, but it is a curable and treatable disease,” said Mayor Chivhoko.
“To confront this challenge head-on, a critical public health campaign will be held from June to the end of September 2026.”
He encouraged residents to cooperate with health workers and take advantage of the free screening services.
“During this period, trained community health workers will go door-to-door conducting TB diagnosis and screening across the neighbourhoods of Mkoba, Mtapa and Senga,” he said.
“These workers are not intruders; they are our protectors. When they knock, welcome them.”
Mayor Chivhoko assured residents that the exercise will be conducted professionally, with confidentiality being maintained throughout the process.
“The screening is free and confidential. Should a referral be needed, residents will be directed to our major health facilities,” he said.
Health experts have consistently stressed the importance of early detection and treatment of tuberculosis, noting that prompt diagnosis helps prevent transmission and improves recovery outcomes.
The campaign forms part of local health authorities’ broader efforts to strengthen disease surveillance, improve access to healthcare services and reduce the burden of communicable diseases within the city.
