First-Ever TB Vaccine Readiness Workshop Held in South Africa

South Africa is taking bold steps in the global battle against Tuberculosis (TB). The first-ever TB Vaccine Country Readiness Workshop ran July 23–24, 2025, in Johannesburg. The event was organized by the Department of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO), with support from national and international partners. Their shared aim was to accelerate progress toward ending TB.

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Scientists, policymakers, regulators, donors, civil society leaders, and TB survivors attended the two-day meeting. Together, they developed a roadmap for fast, fair rollout of new TB vaccines when available. This article explores the workshop’s purpose, key attendees, results, and its importance for South Africa’s health.

TB remains a major global infectious disease killer. South Africa faces one of the world’s highest TB burdens. This workshop signals a strong move to save lives and strengthen health systems.

Background: South Africa’s TB Challenge and the Global “End TB Strategy”

TB remains a top infectious disease threat in South Africa and globally. It still claims many lives and harms economic growth. The WHO’s “End TB Strategy” aims to end this epidemic by 2035, a goal that needs fast, coordinated action.

Vaccination is a key way to fight TB. The BCG vaccine has protected infants and young children from severe TB for more than 100 years. However, it does not work as well against lung TB in adults and adolescents the groups hardest hit by the disease. Better vaccines are urgently needed to fill this gap.

Purpose and Objectives of the TB Vaccine Readiness Workshop

The Johannesburg workshop was designed to ensure South Africa is among the first countries ready to deliver new TB vaccines as soon as they are approved. With several promising vaccine candidates in late-stage clinical trials and regulatory approval anticipated within a few years, the country is proactively building the systems needed for rapid, equitable access.

The primary objectives of the workshop were:

• Develop a country-specific roadmap for TB vaccine introduction, covering all aspects of readiness, from policy and regulatory frameworks to supply chains, financing, health worker training, and community engagement.
• Strengthen multisectoral coordination between government, academia, civil society, donors, and international agencies to ensure a unified, effective response.
• Engage communities and TB survivors in planning and decision-making to build trust and address potential barriers to vaccine uptake.
• Share global best practices and adapt them to South Africa’s unique context, leveraging the country’s experience as a leader in TB research and vaccine development.

Who Attended the TB Vaccine Readiness Workshop?

The workshop was a national gathering of the country’s leading TB experts and stakeholders. Participants included senior officials from the National Department of Health, provincial health departments, the WHO, the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), academic institutions, donor organizations such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and civil society organizations.

Keynote speakers included Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi, Minister of Health, and Ms. Shenaaz El-Halabi, WHO Representative to South Africa. Their presence underscored the high-level political commitment to TB elimination and vaccine preparedness.

Prof. Yogan Pillay, Director for HIV and TB Delivery at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, also participated, highlighting the importance of global partnerships in achieving TB control goals.

Key Discussions and Outcomes

Multisectoral Planning for Vaccine Rollout

Delegates worked intensively to address the complex challenges of TB vaccine introduction. Breakout sessions focused on developing strategies for strengthening health systems, ensuring adequate financing, optimizing supply chains, training healthcare workers, and engaging communities. “This is the first national meeting of its kind focused exclusively on TB vaccine rollout preparedness. It signals South Africa’s intent to lead from the front in accelerating access to new health technologies,” stated the Department of Health.

Policy and Regulatory Readiness

Robust policy and regulatory frameworks are essential for the successful introduction of new vaccines. Participants reviewed international guidelines and adapted them to the South African context, with a focus on equity, accessibility, and safety. The workshop emphasized the need for clear communication strategies to counter misinformation and build public confidence in new vaccines.

Community Engagement and Stigma Reduction

TB survivors and civil society representatives played a central role in shaping the discussions. Their insights highlighted the importance of addressing stigma, ensuring informed consent, and tailoring communication to meet the needs of diverse communities. “Community engagement must be at the heart of any TB vaccine rollout people need to understand the benefits and feel included in the process,” noted a participant from a leading TB advocacy group.

Financing and Sustainable Access

Sustainable financing is critical for long-term success. Delegates explored innovative funding mechanisms, including domestic resource mobilization and partnerships with international donors, to ensure that new vaccines reach those most in need. The workshop also addressed the importance of integrating TB vaccines into existing health programs to maximize efficiency and impact.

What the Workshop Means for South Africa’s TB Response

The workshop marks a turning point in South Africa’s TB strategy. By proactively preparing for the arrival of new vaccines, the country is positioning itself to reduce TB incidence and mortality more rapidly and effectively. This approach aligns with the “End TB Strategy” and demonstrates South Africa’s leadership in global health innovation.

A successful rollout will require ongoing collaboration among all stakeholders. The Department of Health emphasized that “this is not the end, but the beginning of a sustained, coordinated effort to end TB in our lifetime”.

Direct Impact on South African Communities

The people most at risk adolescents, adults, and those with HIV stand to benefit first from new TB vaccines. Once available, these vaccines could lower illness rates, save lives, and reduce pressure on health systems.

Additionally, healthcare workers will gain better training, clearer guidance, and stronger support. This will help them deliver vaccines safely and well.

Furthermore, communities will see more awareness, less stigma, and greater say in health choices. As a result, trust will grow and health outcomes should improve.

South Africa’s Role in Global TB Vaccine Innovation

South Africa has long been at the forefront of TB research and vaccine development. The country hosts leading clinical trial sites and has contributed valuable data to global vaccine research efforts. This workshop reinforces South Africa’s reputation as a key player in the fight against TB, both regionally and globally.

Prof. Norbert Ndjeka of the National TB Programme remarked, “South Africa’s strategic planning for TB vaccines is setting a benchmark for other high-burden countries. Our experience and partnerships will help accelerate progress toward ending TB everywhere.”

Next Steps After the TB Vaccine Readiness Workshop

The outcomes of the workshop will feed directly into South Africa’s National TB Programme and inform provincial implementation plans. Key next steps include:

• Finalizing the national TB vaccine readiness roadmap and disseminating it to all stakeholders for feedback and endorsement.
• Strengthening monitoring and evaluation systems to track progress and identify gaps in real time.
• Scaling up community awareness campaigns to prepare the public for the introduction of new vaccines.
• Continuing to engage with international partners to share lessons learned and advocate for equitable access to new tools.

Voices from the Ground: Testimonials and Reflections

Delegates shared their perspectives on the significance of the workshop. A senior health official noted, “This meeting has shown what we can achieve when we work together across sectors. We are building the foundation for a TB-free future.”

A TB survivor and advocate added, “It’s empowering to see our voices included in the planning process. We know what it’s like to live with TB, and we want to make sure no one else has to suffer.”

International partners praised South Africa’s proactive approach. “South Africa is leading by example showing how high-burden countries can prepare for the next generation of TB vaccines,” said a representative from the WHO.

How the World Is Watching South Africa’s TB Vaccine Preparedness

The global health community is closely following South Africa’s TB vaccine readiness efforts. The country’s experience will provide valuable lessons for other nations facing similar challenges, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, where TB remains a major cause of illness and death.

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and other donors have pledged continued support, recognizing that South Africa’s success could catalyze progress worldwide.

A New Era in South Africa’s Fight Against TB

The first-ever TB Vaccine Readiness Workshop in South Africa is a milestone in the country’s public health journey. By bringing together the best minds and most committed advocates, South Africa is laying the groundwork for a future where TB no longer threatens the health and prosperity of its people.

As Minister Motsoaledi stated in his keynote address, “Today, we are not just planning for a vaccine we are planning for a healthier, stronger South Africa.”