Here’s a startling fact: despite advancements in medical science, tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the deadliest infectious diseases globally, claiming over 1.25 million lives in 2023 alone. But what if a simple text message could change this grim reality? The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) is launching a groundbreaking study to explore how SMS messaging can revolutionize TB treatment adherence in Ethiopia and Liberia, two countries hit hardest by the disease. And this is the part most people miss: while TB treatment exists, sticking to the regimen is a massive challenge, often leading to drug resistance and relapse. This study, backed by a $100,000 World Bank grant, aims to tackle this head-on by leveraging the ubiquity of mobile phones—a tool already in the hands of millions.
Running from November 17 to December 12, 2025, the research is a collaborative effort involving the Ministries of Health in Ethiopia and Liberia, the University of Liberia College of Health Sciences, Dire Dawa University, and the Dire Dawa Health Bureau. With technical oversight from Africa CDC’s Science and Innovation Directorate, the study will unfold in two phases: first, a baseline assessment to gauge current adherence levels among 844 TB patients (422 in each country), followed by a pilot intervention where 200 patients receive SMS reminders. But here’s where it gets controversial: while digital solutions seem promising, not everyone has equal access to mobile technology, and even fewer may trust it for healthcare. Will this approach truly bridge the gap, or could it inadvertently exclude vulnerable populations?**
Dr. Mosoka Fallah, Acting Director of Science and Innovation at Africa CDC, emphasizes the study’s potential: “This research isn’t just about sending texts; it’s about integrating digital innovation into TB care in a way that’s patient-centered and addresses real-world barriers. By making treatment support more accessible, we’re not just fighting TB—we’re empowering communities.” The study, titled ‘Improving TB Treatment Adherence through Mobile-Phone Messaging: Identifying Barriers, Facilitators, and Adoption Pathways in Ethiopia and Liberia,’ will also evaluate the barriers to digital adoption and its impact on patient outcomes. Both quantitative and qualitative data will inform national TB strategies and continental digital health policies.
Here’s the bigger picture: If successful, this initiative could set a precedent for using digital tools in public health across Africa, aligning with the WHO’s End-TB Strategy and the African Union’s health priorities. But it also raises questions: Are we moving too fast with technology in regions where basic healthcare infrastructure is still lacking? Or is this the leapfrog innovation Africa needs? We’d love to hear your thoughts—do you think SMS reminders could be a game-changer for TB treatment, or are there deeper systemic issues we need to address first? Let us know in the comments.
About Africa CDC: The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention is a public health agency of the African Union, dedicated to strengthening health systems, improving disease surveillance, and enhancing emergency response across the continent. Learn more at www.africacdc.org and follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube.
Media Contact: Margaret Edwin, Director of Communication and Public Information – EdwinM@africacdc.org
