Lovemore Lubinda
Sam Levy Village Ster-Kinekor Movie theatre today premier an evocative movie based on a poignant narrative of the tuberculosis disease.
The Movie “The Lucky Specials” is billed to entertain and educate millions with its dynamic storyline, new brand of African music, and a unique look at tuberculosis.
According to US Ambassador Harry K. Thomas, Jr, “This movie will not only entertain, but it will also dismantle dangerous misconceptions and break down some of the walls built up by stigma and discrimination.”
“The United States is proud to partner with Zimbabwe to reach large audiences with life saving information about TB, how it is spread, and how it is treated and cured,” said Ambassador Thomas
In Zimbabwe, USAID has partnered with the Ministry of Health and Child Care’s National TB Control Program and The International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (The Union) to improve the quality and increase the availability of TB health services.
“TB is a major public health problem in Zimbabwe,” stated Dr. Charles Sandy, Head of the National TB Control Programme in the Ministry of Health and Child Care. “The Lucky Specials will go a long way in helping us reach everyone in need of TB health services, with the ultimate goal of eradicating the disease.”
Dr. Christopher Zishiri, Director of the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease’s Zimbabwe office believes that “The Lucky Specials” will play an important role of changing attitudes and behaviors around TB.
“The Union together with the National TB Control Programme and USAID has made TB testing and treatment available throughout the country.
“This film has it all: a new genre of music created specifically for the movie, a great story and a powerful message,” stated Aric Noboa, president of Discovery Learning Alliance and producer of The Lucky Specials. “We are privileged to work with our distinguished partners to bring this story to audiences across southern Africa and around the world.”
In Zimbabwe, TB continues to be the leading cause of death among people living with HIV, and approximately 70 percent of Zimbabweans suffering from TB are co-infected with HIV. Last year alone, approximately 30,000 Zimbabweans were diagnosed with TB.
