Across Africa, the tide is turning against neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). At the Amref-led webinar on 13 August 2025, “Escape the Neglect: Eliminating NTDs in a Changing World” — supported by the Gates Foundation, more than 2,500 participants from 64 countries gathered to celebrate milestones like Kenya’s elimination of sleeping sickness (human African trypanosomiasis), while confronting the growing threat of NTDs: diseases that trap millions in cycles of poverty, stigma, and lost productivity.
The stakes are high. Climate change, shrinking donor support, and fragile surveillance systems are pushing health systems to a breaking point. Leaders from across the continent spoke with urgency. “Countries cannot achieve sustained economic growth when they are heavily burdened by NTDs. We must treat NTD control and elimination as an urgent economic priority,” said Dr Sultani Matendechero, Senior Deputy Director at the Ministry of Health, Kenya.
His call was echoed by Dr Clarer Jones Mwansasu (NTD Programme Manager, Ministry of Health, Tanzania), who stressed that integration into primary healthcare is the most cost-effective way forward, and by Dr Solomon Zewdu, CEO of the END Fund, who urged countries to seize this moment and invest in NTD elimination. “This is a community-level engagement that we need to cultivate. The fight against NTDs is an economic discussion, not just health. Every country in Africa has an opportunity and commitment to putting together its health financing.”
Moderators Dr Githinji Gitahi and Dr Ebere Okereke underscored the political and financial leadership required to sustain momentum. “Strong political will and country leadership are critical. We are not talking about an Africa without aid, but an Africa where aid is integrated with public funding to drive sustainable solutions,” said Dr Gitahi. Dr Okereke added, “NTDs can be a success story for the 21st century. It is within our reach, and it’s cost-effective.”
The resolution was clear: Africa must lead, pooling resources, integrating services, and elevating NTDs as both a health and economic priority. The story of NTD elimination is not just about saving lives; it’s about safeguarding Africa’s future.
Watch the full webinar recording here.
Story by Erick Achola, Global Communications Manager, Amref Health Africa.