KELIN presents TB data findings on vulnerable and undeserved populations

On 5 – 6 February 2018, KELIN participated in a two day workshop to evaluate the data for action for TB key, vulnerable and underserved populations. The workshop, convened by Stop TB Partnership, was hosted by KHANA and the Cambodia National TB Programme in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

During the workshop, findings of the Data Assessments conducted in Kenya, India, Cambodia, Tanzania, Bangladesh and Ukraine were presented. KELIN presented the findings of the Data Assessment which revealed that there is limited data available on TB key, vulnerable and underserved populations. The findings, which are a reflection of the study conducted by KELIN, revealed that although the existing data in Kenya is segregated on the basis of gender, it is not being used for any programming, planning or policy purposes. A key recommendation from Kenya’s findings is the need to map, identify and collect data of populations most at risk and greatly impacted by TB.

Interestingly, the findings from Kenya mirrored findings from the other countries. The general finding being that data on TB key, vulnerable and underserved populations was scanty, with most being excluded from strategic interventions. Vulnerable populations remain at an increased risk of TB due to where they live or work, have limited access to quality services and are at risk due to biological and behavioural factors.

KELIN will continue to work with the National TB Programme and other partners to ensure the findings inform strategic planning and interventions at both the county and national level.

To contribute to the discussion and for live updates follow KELIN on our social media platforms using the hash tag #TBRights

Twitter: @KELINkenya

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/kelinkenya

For more information contact:
Timothy Wafula

Programme Officer HIV & TB

Kenya Legal and Ethical Issues Network on HIV & AIDS (KELIN)
4th Floor, Somak Building, Mombasa Road
PO Box 112-00200, KNH
Email: twafula@kelinkenya.org