This is an open invitation from the World Health Organization and Ministries of Health in the Eastern Mediterranean Region to all segments of the community and different sectors in the Region to participate in a unique activity the Million Youth March to Stop TB.
The Million Youth March to Stop TB in the Eastern Mediterranean reflects the idea that in each country of this region, conscious and committed individuals, especially young people, equal in number to the rate of TB prevalence (number of patients) in that country, should come out and pledge to play a role in the fight against TB.
The aim is to mobilize a number of people equivalent to the number of patients in each one of the 22 countries that belong to the Region in a march to Stop TB. For example, in Pakistan, where estimated TB prevalence is approx. 500,000 and in Egypt where it is estimated at 20,000, an equal number of students, young professionals and children should rally themselves behind the "Stop TB flag" on the same day, 13th of March.
In Egypt, the Million Youth March to Stop TB will be held on Friday, the 13th of March, within the precinct of the Saladin Citadel, so that all components of society can walk together and show determination to raise the community's awareness of this serious health threat. In all other 26 governorates other gatherings and activities will be organized within educational institutions like schools, colleges and universities.
The National TB Programme will take the lead and communicate with ministries of education, student unions, youth associations, local security departments, NGOs and other stakeholders to participate in the event
Tuberculosis, or TB, is a preventable and curable disease. However, it continues to affect millions of lives in the world and our Region. According to recent estimates, roughly 1 million people are suffering from TB in this Region (Eastern Mediterranean) alone.
This year, the call from WHO aims to launch a movement to raise a united voice seeking to eliminate tuberculosis. This universal Middle East STOP TB walkathon is scheduled in 22 countries, around mid March, to celebrate World TB Day, and involves the participation of members from all sectors of the society.
The Million Youth March to Stop TB is an opportunity to make the decision-makers, media, and society at large, realize that TB today remains an epidemic that needs their urgent attention
Advocacy teams and NGOs in each country, on this occasion, will distribute banners, flyers, buntings and flags all marked with "I am stopping TB–Million Youth March" to create synergy and a unified message.