The 2nd Conference on Innovations in Tuberculosis (TB) 2025 was held on the 12th of May 2025 in Windhoek Namibia which brought together global experts in research and innovation to brainstorm and showcase on strides made and challenges encountered to addressing issues around tuberculosis detection, treatment and prevention. Held with the backing of the Ministry of Health and Social Services and the TB Free Foundation Namibia, the conference provided a platform for both groundbreaking research and triggered a regional dialogue that places the mantle on Africa’s leadership and role in TB innovation and policy.
Varied presentations contributed to the larger theme of the conference “reimagining TB control strategies through scientific innovation and cross-sectoral collaboration”. Drawing interest from researchers and policymakers, the discussions highlighted the interrelationship between TB and Non-Communicable Diseases, Economics and how gaps in diagnostic accessibility and affordability can be addressed by leveraging data from global patent landscapes and market availability trends. The session, chaired by leading TB experts Dr. Frank Cobelens and Dr. Nunurai Ruswa, featured diverse studies ranging from AI-assisted diagnostics to whole genome sequencing of resistant TB strains. KELIN’s representative, Mr. Duke Otieno, presented the study findings from the Market and Patent Intelligence study that was conducted in Kenya and emphasized strategic recommendations like strengthening the diagnostic landscape for an effective access to treatment and guide policymakers and procurement agencies in fast-tracking access to innovative TB testing tools especially in high burden and low resource settings.
One of the most interesting sessions showcased research finding on the role of artificial intelligence in TB detection particularly AI based cough sound analysis. A researcher from Zambia demonstrated how machine learning algorithms are being programmed to distinguish TB-related coughs from other respiratory conditions like COVID and throat cancer with pinpoint accuracy. This non invasive and scalable approach holds the hope for use in community screenings especially in rural or resource limited settings where access to laboratory diagnostics remains a challenge.
Complementing these advances, the conference pointed out to a rich and expanding pipeline of innovations targeting TB diagnostics and treatment. Novel rapid diagnostic tools like next-gen molecular assays and point of care biosensors are showing the potential to reduced time in diagnosis. On the treatment front, research into shorter and more effective drug regimens especially for children is gaining traction with studies on pretomatid use in children under 14 years also ending.
The fight against TB is getting into a new era powered by research, technology and multi sector collaboration. With AI driven diagnostics, treatment research and a robust pipeline of innovations, the momentum is unstoppable. Experts however cautioned that translating these gains into impact requires sustained political will, investment and equitable. KELIN is committed to championing for proper use of resources and ensuring the political class and policy makers are brought to speed with latest developments.
For more information, please contact:
Duke Otieno
Advocacy Officer-HIV/TB
Kenya Legal and Ethical Issues Network on HIV & AIDS (KELIN)
Kuwinda Lane, Karen C, off Langáta Road
