The problem

Drug-resistant TB (DR-TB) continues to pose a serious public health threat, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Recent advancements in the development of shorter, more effective DR-TB treatment regimens have resulted in WHO-recommended regimens that can cut treatment time and cost in half. However, the adoption of these new treatment regimens has been slow in many high-burden countries.

Our response

Leveraging the Challenge Facility for Civil Society mechanism, this project will work with communities affected by DR-TB, including TB champions and survivor-led networks  to implement initiatives that increase the demand and access for DR-TB services, including access to drug-resistance testing and shorter, all-oral treatment regimens.

Through the Reshaping People-Centric Empowered Community-Led DR-TB Treatment (RESPECT) project, led by the Stop TB Partnership, we will implement community-led monitoring accountability mechanisms that drive demand, and the co-creation of solutions tailored to community needs. The project will also develop and share tools and resources to strengthen community engagement and improve the overall response to DR-TB and its integration into national health services

By fostering community demand creation this approach aims to increase community ownership, accountability, and the sustainability of the interventions, and will contribute to better health outcomes and the reduction of TB-related stigma and discrimination.

The project will be implemented in Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, India, Moldova, and Pakistan, complemented by Stop TB Partnership’s work in other countries.