A conversation with Hon. Lynette Karenyi on why parliamentary leadership matters in the fight against TB

Hon. Lynette Karenyi reflects on why she joined the Global TB Caucus, how she has worked to combine community action with parliamentary advocacy, and why legislators must lead the way if the world is to end tuberculosis.

What motivated you to join the Global TB Caucus?

“I was motivated to join the Global TB Caucus because tuberculosis remains one of the world’s deadliest yet preventable diseases and it continues to disproportionately affect vulnerable communities.

I strongly believe that political leadership and advocacy are critical in mobilizing resources, shaping policies, and breaking the stigma associated with TB.

As a legislator and community leader, I felt a responsibility to be part of a global movement that works to ensure universal access to TB prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. The caucus provides a unique platform to collaborate with fellow parliamentarians across the world, share experiences, and push for accountability so that no life is lost to a disease that can be cured.

My motivation comes from a deep commitment to public health, social justice and the conviction that ending TB is not only a medical necessity but also a moral duty.”

A moment that made a difference

One of the areas where Hon. Karenyi directly influenced change was through community TB awareness campaigns in partnership with local health institutions and civil society.

“I took the initiative to engage communities, especially in high burden areas, by raising awareness on the importance of early testing and completing treatment. Through these engagements, I helped demystify TB, reduce stigma and encouraged people to seek health services.

I also used my platform in Parliament to call for increased funding for TB programs and for the integration of TB screening into primary health care. This combination of grassroots awareness and policy advocacy created visible impact. More people presented themselves for testing and local authorities began prioritising resources for TB interventions.”

A message to fellow parliamentarians

Hon. Karenyi is clear about the role legislators must play.

“I would encourage my fellow parliamentarians to join the Global TB Caucus because the fight against tuberculosis requires strong political will and united voices. TB is not just a health issue it is a development challenge that affects our economies, our families and our communities.

As lawmakers, we have the responsibility and the influence to shape policies, mobilise resources and hold our governments accountable for delivering on health commitments.

By joining the caucus, we become part of a global network of leaders who are determined to end TB in our lifetime. Together we can share knowledge, support each other’s advocacy and ensure that no one is left behind in accessing prevention and treatment. Ending TB is achievable, but only if we as parliamentarians lead from the front.”

As the world pushes toward the 2030 goal to end TB, Hon. Karenyi’s journey shows how political leadership rooted in both community engagement and parliamentary action can turn commitments into real change.