The government of Turkmenistan has initiated a new project aimed at tuberculosis control, titled "Transition of the National Tuberculosis Program of Turkmenistan from Global Fund Financing," in collaboration with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), as reported by the official media of Turkmenistan.
The project, set to run from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2027, features a budget exceeding $6.2 million, funded by the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria. It aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of the National Tuberculosis Program by transitioning to domestic funding by 2027. The initiative will enhance access to diagnostic tools like GeneXpert in remote areas, pilot digital solutions, and guarantee the availability of essential medications and patient support services through directly observed therapy.
Key components of the initiative include the introduction of shorter, more effective treatment regimens for drug-resistant tuberculosis, aiming to improve cure rates and overall cost-effectiveness. The implementation of this grant will occur in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Red Crescent Society of Turkmenistan.
Narine Saakyan, the UNDP Resident Representative in Turkmenistan, remarked that this project underscores the country’s dedication to public health and the transition to full domestic funding. She noted that Turkmenistan is taking a leading role in alleviating the tuberculosis burden by enhancing access to timely and quality healthcare.
Turkmenistan has made substantial strides in combating tuberculosis, driven by strong political will and effective management strategies for prevention and treatment. Since 2010, the Global Fund has contributed over $37 million to the program, and the Turkmen government has progressively increased its financial involvement since 2016.
