About SEARN-TB

SEARN TB is a regional network for TB control in Southern and East Africa, established in 2023 with the support of TDR. The concept of our network was first raised at a TRAC Conference at Hawasa and born out of a meeting at the Hilton Hotel Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where representatives from 18 National TB programs, WHO regional offices, and partner organizations gathered to address common challenges in TB control. At this meeting, the foundation of SEARN TB was laid, including the establishment of Terms of Reference, identification of key priority areas, and the definition of member responsibilities.

The network aims to facilitate collaboration and information sharing among National TB Programs in the region, with a focus on addressing the TB epidemiological context, challenges, and priorities of each country. SEARN TB is committed to working towards improving TB control efforts through joint initiatives and partnerships. The Armauer Hansen Research Institute (AHRI) serves as our secretariat, with the NTPs of Ethiopia and Malawi co-chairing the leadership for two years.

With a strong foundation and dedicated members, SEARN TB is poised to make a significant impact on TB control efforts in Southern and East Africa. Join us as we work together to combat TB and improve the health outcomes of our communities.

Our Objectives

Facilitating Communication

One of the key objectives of SEARN TB is to facilitate communication between National TB Programs (NTPs) within the region, as well as between NTPs and key partners and stakeholders. By establishing channels for regular communication and information sharing, the network aims to promote collaboration, coordination, and the exchange of best practices and experiences among TB control professionals. This objective helps to ensure that NTPs are informed about the latest developments in TB control, can learn from each other’s successes and challenges, and can work together more effectively towards common goals.

Promoting and Facilitating Implementation and Operational Research

SEARN TB aims to promote and facilitate implementation and operational research for enhanced TB control in the region. By supporting research activities that focus on improving the implementation of TB control interventions, the network seeks to generate evidence-based solutions that can inform policy and practice. This objective helps to strengthen the capacity of NTPs to implement effective TB control strategies, identify innovative approaches, and address specific challenges faced in the region.

Promoting Harmonization Across Strategies and Best Practices

Another objective of SEARN TB is to promote harmonization across strategies and best practices for TB control in the region. By encouraging alignment and consistency in approaches to TB control, the network aims to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of interventions, reduce duplication of efforts, and ensure that resources are used optimally. This objective helps to create a more unified and coordinated approach to TB control, which can lead to improved outcomes and impact at both national and regional levels.

Supporting NTPs with Advocacy and Resource Mobilization Efforts

SEARN TB seeks to support NTPs with advocacy and resource mobilization efforts that can strengthen national responses to TB. By providing technical assistance, guidance, and tools for advocacy, the network helps NTPs to effectively communicate the importance of investing in TB control, mobilize support from policymakers and stakeholders, and secure funding for program implementation. This objective aims to ensure that NTPs have the resources they need to implement quality TB control interventions, scale up services, and achieve national targets for TB prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.