In 1982 it was calculated that, at any given time for the whole world, there were around 10 million cases of highly infectious tuberculosis, and at least as many new cases of other forms of the disease. During the ensuing decade, if population growth continued as expected, 40-50 million persons would become highly contagious cases, of whom two- thirds would die if not treated. In addition, several million children would become tuberculous, and tens of thousands would die of tuberculous meningitis. A third of a century has been devoted to tuberculosis in South Africa and that record of achievement is far from satisfactory, and a review of present strategies is highly desirable. Some of the beliefs and practices considered to be responsible for this state of affairs are perforce to be eschewed. Opportunities need to be created for persons closely involved in tuberculosis control in all parts of South Africas including those that are now independent or self- governing to come together on a regular basis for the sharing of experience and discussion of problems; and decision-makers should heed their deliberations and be sufficiently flexible to review official strategies if necessary.