Dr Tinashe T Chinyanga, OPHID Executive Director
BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA
Community-driven solutions are key in achieving a TB-free Zimbabwe in the face of dwindling donor support, Organization for Public Health Interventions and Development (OPHID) Executive Director Dr Tinashe T Chinyanga has said.
Dr Chinyanga revealed this as OPHID joins the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MOHCC), partners, stakeholders and the global community in commemorating World TB Day today.
This year’s World TB Day is celebrated under the theme, “Yes! We Can End TB: Led by Countries, Powered by People”.
“OPHID highlights the critical importance of community-driven solutions in achieving a TB-free Zimbabwe in the face of dwindling donor support.
“For over 25 years, OPHID has remained a steadfast partner to the Government of Zimbabwe, working tirelessly to bridge gaps in the national health response.
“As a local partner, we stay committed to our mission of implementing programs that shape policy and save lives.
“In the fight against TB, OPHID’s technical expertise and community rooted approaches have been instrumental in improving case detection, treatment adherence and overall survival rates for those affected by TB,” said Dr Chinyanga.
He further revealed that recognizing that TB remains the leading cause of death among people living with HIV (PLHIV), OPHID pioneered the integration of TB and HIV services into the primary healthcare.
“Our approach is simple yet transformative: no recipient of care should have to visit multiple clinics or wait in separate lines for TB and HIV care.
“By integrating these services into the very fabric of primary healthcare, we ensure that every person-centered visit is an opportunity for screening, prevention and life-saving treatment.
illustration of the power of community-driven solutions
“This integrated model not only improves clinical outcomes but also preserves the dignity and time of our clients.”
Dr Chinyanga added that OPHID continues to drive progress through the adoption of cutting-edge innovations such as:
“Rapid Diagnostics: OPHID has supported the scale-up of WHO-recommended rapid molecular tests and digital Chest X-rays, significantly reducing the turnaround time for diagnosis.
“Digital Health Solutions: The rollout of the Boost App and digital patient charts has empowered community health workers and nurses with real-time data and job aids, ensuring that no patient ‘falls through the cracks’ of the care continuum.
“Community-Led Monitoring: By empowering local communities and TB survivors to monitor service quality, we have fostered a culture of accountability that ensures services remain accessible, affordable and stigma-free.
“Pediatric TB Focus: OPHID has made significant strides in improving TB screening for children, ensuring that the youngest and most vulnerable members of our society receive the child-friendly treatments they deserve,” he added.
Dr Tinashe T Chinyanga speaks
He further revealed that while we celebrate over 83 million lives saved globally since the year 2000, Zimbabwe remains a high-burden country.
“To end the epidemic by 2030, we call upon all stakeholders in government, private sector and civil society to accelerate and sustain efforts in this fight. “Led by our national strategies and powered by the resilience of our people, Yes we can end TB!,” added Dr Chinyanga.
