The Ifakara Health Institute (IHI), in collaboration with the University of Nairobi and Makerere University, will co-host the inaugural Jirani Symposium on Tuberculosis (TB) on 23–24 June 2026. The virtual symposium will bring together scientists, clinicians, policymakers, National TB Programmes, and regional health partners from across East Africa.

Held under the theme “Shared Burden, Shared Response,” the symposium aims to strengthen regional collaboration in addressing one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases through science, innovation, and cross-border partnerships.

Addressing a Shared Regional Challenge

Tuberculosis continues to place a major burden on East African countries, many of which remain among the world’s high TB burden nations. Despite shared challenges shaped by migration, trade, displacement, and interconnected health systems, responses across the region often remain fragmented.

The Jirani Symposium seeks to bridge these gaps by creating a platform for scientific dialogue, evidence sharing, and collaborative problem-solving. The word Jirani, meaning “neighbour” in Swahili, reflects the symposium’s core belief that countries across the region must work together to advance TB prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and research.

Key Topics for Discussion

Over two half-day sessions, participants will discuss:

• TB burden and transmission trends in East Africa
• Advances in TB diagnostics and treatment
• Drug-resistant TB and preventive therapies
• Post-TB lung disease and long-term outcomes
• TB among refugees, migrants, and vulnerable populations
• Vaccine development and emerging TB research
• Regional innovations and lessons in TB control

Spotlight on Research and Collaboration

The symposium will feature presentations from national and international experts and provide a platform for Early Career Researchers (ECRs) from Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya to present original research and engage with leading scientists and programme implementers.

Participating institutions and partners include ministries of health, universities, hospitals, research institutions, and national TB programmes from across East Africa, alongside organisations such as WHO AFRO, Africa CDC, and the Stop TB Partnership.

Strengthening Africa-Led TB Science

Through the symposium, organisers aim to strengthen regional partnerships, promote Africa-led TB science, improve knowledge sharing, and support the next generation of researchers and clinicians leading the fight against tuberculosis.