Tajikistan Inaugurates New Children’s Tuberculosis Center with German Support

The Machiton Tuberculosis Center for Children has been officially inaugurated in a ceremony led by Tajik President Emomali Rahmon and German Ambassador to Tajikistan York Schuegraf.

This new facility is a crucial part of the Tuberculosis Control Program, a joint effort funded by the German government through KfW and implemented by Tajikistan’s Ministry of Health and Social Protection of the Population, The Caspian Post informs via Tajik media.

Developed under Phase V of the tuberculosis control program, which has been active since 2006 with a total budget of 22.3 million euros, the project builds upon previous successes that include the establishment of the National Tuberculosis Hospital in Machiton, the National Reference Laboratory, and the Regional Tuberculosis Hospital in Dehmoi, Sughd province. These institutions have played a vital role in providing high-quality care, especially for patients battling Multi-Drug Resistant (MDR) tuberculosis.

The latest addition at the National Center for Tuberculosis, Pulmonology, and Thoracic Surgery in Machiton features a new hospital building designed not only to meet medical needs but also to support young patients with dedicated playrooms, social service areas, and classrooms. Enhanced kitchen and laundry facilities were also constructed or refurbished to support hospital operations.

The center is outfitted with advanced medical equipment, including ultrasound machines, aimed at improving early diagnosis and treatment. It also incorporates modern management systems and energy-efficient infrastructure such as state-of-the-art ventilation, heating, water, sanitation systems, and solar energy collectors.

To ensure effective hospital operation, the initiative places strong emphasis on capacity building. Medical staff will receive specialized training in pediatric tuberculosis diagnosis and treatment over the coming months. Additionally, laboratory personnel have already undergone training in quality and safety management through a “Twinning Arrangement” with the German Supranational Tuberculosis Reference Laboratory (SRL) in Gauting.

This project continues a long-standing partnership between Germany and Tajikistan. Since 2003, KfW has been a key partner in Tajikistan’s health sector, providing more than 100 million euros in financial support for a range of health initiatives, including maternity and child health, emergency care, tuberculosis control, and polio prevention.