Who We Are
A not-for-profit civil society organization dedicated to the fight against tuberculosis and the creation of a world free from the disease.
TB Free Namibia
The TB Free Foundation is a not-for-profit civil society organisation established to work collaboratively toward the END TB goals and to advocate for TB patients across Namibia.
We are dedicated to the fight against tuberculosis and to building a world free from the disease. Our work is rooted in advocating for the rights of TB patients, ensuring equitable access to healthcare, diagnostics, and treatment, and raising awareness and education about TB in the communities we serve.
Founded by a TB survivor who experienced firsthand the stigma and isolation that so often accompanies the disease, we fight every day for those who have no voice.
The TB Free Foundation aligns its work with Namibia's National TB Strategic Plan 2022/23–2027/28, supporting people- and community-centred strategies that foster an enabling environment built on equality, equal access to healthcare, and the reduction of discrimination and stigma.
We further embrace the WHO people-centred framework for TB planning, which is grounded in a continuum of care approach — drawing on epidemiological and health system data and prioritising interventions through root cause analysis to achieve the greatest possible impact.
The Leaders
Meet the people behind the mission to end TB in Namibia.
The Chairperson
Dr. Taime Sylvester
Dr. Taime Sylvester brings a wealth of public health expertise to her role as Chairperson, leading the TB Free Foundation with vision, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to ending tuberculosis in Namibia.
The Founder
Karin Husselmann
Karin Husselmann is a TB survivor, a tireless advocate, and the driving force behind the TB Free Foundation — built from personal experience and a fierce determination to break the stigma around tuberculosis. A survivor on a mission to ensure no one fights TB alone.
Vice-Chairperson
Dr. Ndauda Hapulipe
Bringing expertise and dedication to the TB Free Foundation's leadership and advocacy mission.
Board Member
Dr. Farai Kevin Munyayi
Dr. Munyayi is currently leading the Public Health Response & TB/HIV Case Finding program at I-TECH Namibia (University of Washington Global Health Center), supporting the MoHSS TB & HIV programs. He enjoys spending time with family and friends, networking, sports, and travel.
Board Member
Etheline Geurtze
A Physiotherapy Lecturer at the University of Namibia, Etheline brings extensive experience across clinical practice, health system leadership, and academia. She previously served as the national Chief Health Programme Officer for Rehabilitation in the MoHSS, integrating clinical expertise with strategic leadership in rehabilitation systems and evidence-informed practice.
Board Member
Fiina Namukwambi
A Lecturer in the Human Nutrition programme at NUST, Fiina's research focuses on improving child nutrition. Her expertise spans Food Nutrition and Food Security, contributing vital knowledge to the health and wellbeing of Namibia's communities.
Board Member
Mrs. Marianne Tise
A strategic finance leader, Marianne views financial management as the heartbeat of innovation. She specializes in building transparent, sustainable frameworks that empower teams and fuel confident growth. When not architecting financial strategy in the boardroom, she's welcoming guests at her farm with the same warmth and passion.
Our Commitment
At the TB Free Foundation, we believe that no one should be left behind in the fight against TB. We walk alongside patients, survivors, and healthcare workers — amplifying their voices and advocating for the care, dignity, and support they deserve. Because no one should face tuberculosis alone.
Purpose & Direction
Our Mission & Vision
Our Mission
To advocate for TB patients and communities throughout Namibia, breaking down barriers to access diagnosis, treatment, and support — ensuring no one is left behind in the fight to END TB.
Our Vision
A Namibia — and ultimately a world — free from tuberculosis, where every person has equitable access to healthcare, and TB is no longer a source of stigma or suffering.
Our Aims
Increase TB Awareness
Educating communities across Namibia about tuberculosis — its prevention, symptoms, and the critical importance of early diagnosis.
Champion Advocacy Campaigns
Leading national and community-level campaigns to put TB firmly on the policy agenda and hold decision-makers accountable for change.
Develop Strategic Educational Programmes
Supporting innovation and research to build evidence-based educational initiatives that create lasting impact in the communities we serve.
Identify & Treat TB Patients
Ensuring every TB patient receives high-quality care and treatment, with dedicated support throughout every stage of their journey.
Break Down Stigma & Discrimination
Working tirelessly to eliminate the social stigma surrounding TB — empowering survivors to reclaim their stories and live with dignity.
Our Strength
Behind the TB Free Foundation is a diverse team of dedicated professionals, each bringing unique expertise and a shared commitment to ending tuberculosis in Namibia.
Scientists
Driving research and evidence-based approaches to TB management and care.
Medical Officers
Bringing frontline clinical knowledge and a deep commitment to patient care.
Public Health Specialists
Applying population-level expertise to prevent the spread of disease and protect communities.
Patient Advocates
The heart of our work — bringing lived experience, community insight, and a powerful human voice to everything we do.