Common Management Unit (TB, HIV, Malaria), Dopasi Foundation and Islamabad Run with Us Join Forces to Host “Sprint to End TB” Event to Commemorate World TB Day 2024.

Islamabad, March 24, 2024 – The Dopasi Foundation, in collaboration with the Common Management Unit for AIDS, TB, and Malaria, Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations & Coordination, proudly announced its partnership with Pakistan’s premier running group, “Islamabad Run with Us,” for the successful hosting of the “Sprint to End TB” event. The event, which took place on March 24, 2024, the World TB Day, echoing the global call to end tuberculosis and aligning with commitments made during the UN High-Level Meeting 2023 on TB and the Sustainable Development Goals for 2030. The “Sprint to End TB” event kicked off from the iconic Chand Tara Chowk, traversing the picturesque Shakar Parian Road, and culminated at the esteemed Gun and Country Club. This carefully selected route symbolized our collective journey towards a TB-free future, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and solidarity in combating this deadly disease. The event was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including Secretary Health Dr. Iftikhar Shalwani, National Coordinator Dr. Razia Fatima, CEO of Dopasi Ms. Kinz ul Eman, Senior Advisor Stop TB Partnership Sr. Syed Karam Shah, PD PTP KPK Dr. Moosa Khan, and Director of MoNHSR&C Dr. Maryam Sarfaraz, among others. Their presence underscored the significance of the event and demonstrated a united commitment to ending TB. At the occasion appreciating the efforts of all the participants the Secretary Mr. Ifttikhar Shalwani said: “TB awareness is not just a matter of public health; it’s a testament to our collective responsibility towards the most vulnerable in our society. By raising awareness and mobilizing resources, we can and we will end TB and build a healthier, more resilient future for all.” Following the sprint, participants and dignitaries gathered at the Gun and Country Club for a closing ceremony and Iftar. The ceremony celebrated the commitment of participants and supporters while providing a platform for further discourse on efforts to end TB. The evening culminated with an Iftar, fostering community building and reflection on the importance of collaborative action in tackling public health challenges. “We are honoured to have collaborated with Islamabad Run with Us and our esteemed partner Dopasi Foundation to organize the ‘Sprint to End TB’ event,” said NC CMU Dr. Razia Fatima. “This initiative symbolizes our unwavering commitment to amplifying awareness, pooling resources, and hastening progress towards eradicating tuberculosis. Together, our collective efforts have made a palpable difference in the lives of millions affected by this disease. This year, our dedication extended beyond a single day, as we dedicated the entire month to raising awareness on TB in Pakistan, recognizing that while globally only one day is set aside for this cause.”