Malawi Hosts Africa’s meeting on Neglected Tropical Diseases #NTDs

Lilongwe-Minister of Health and Sanitation Hon Madalitso Baloyi MP has today officially opened the 2026 Annual Meeting of National Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD) Programme Managers in Lilongwe.

The meeting themed "Leveraging innovative tools and sustainable financing to advance NTD elimination in Africa" has brought together programme managers, policymakers, partners, and experts from across Africa to strengthen collaboration and accelerate progress toward eliminating NTDs by 2030.

In her remarks Hon Baloyi reaffirmed Malawi's commitment to ending NTDs, highlighting the country's achievements in eliminating trachoma (2022), lymphatic filariasis (2020), and leprosy (1994) as public health problems.

"Malawi's progress is recognized as a strong example of what coordinated action and sustained investment can achieve. She states that Malawi continues to make significant strides in combating neglected tropical diseases through strengthening of healthcare systems, expanded access to essential medicines and treatments, and raised awareness about the importance of prevention and control measures.

This meeting is a critical platform for shared learning, practical solutions, and renewed commitment to end the neglect of NTDs and ensure that no one is left behind," she sates.

In his remarks WHO Representative Malawi a.i, Dr Charles Kuria Njuguna highlighted both progress made and the challenges that remain. These include funding decline, gaps in water and sanitation, and stalled progress in some areas.

Dr Njuguna called for increased domestic investment, integration of NTD services into primary health care, and the use of innovative, data-driven approaches to accelerate impact.

"This can only be made possible with collaboration for unified action to eliminate neglected tropical diseases and achieve equity, resilience, and universal health coverage," he said.

Representing the African Union Commission, Julio Rakotonirina emphasized the need for stronger collaboration among countries and called for NTD elimination to remain a top priority as nations implement the AU roadmap to 2030.

Chair of the Kikundi Leadership Council, an African-led Community of Practice spanning 43 countries, Madam Meeja Kaura underscored the critical role of collaboration and peer learning in advancing NTD elimination. Kikundi continues to strengthen programme capacity through mentorship, training, and knowledge sharing. Key achievements highlighted included expanded eLearning, advocacy for increased domestic resource mobilization, and enhanced country-to-country learning.

The discussions have emphasized that eliminating NTDs will require strengthening primary health care systems, advancing sustainable financing, leveraging innovation, and ensuring strong accountability. Speakers also highlighted the importance of partnerships, peer learning, and community engagement in sustaining progress.

According to the @WHO, NTDs continue to affect over one billion people globally, particularly the most vulnerable communities, with Africa carrying a significant share of the burden. Despite this, progress across the continent remains encouraging, with 24 countries having eliminated at least one NTD and a significant reduction in the number of people requiring interventions.

#EndNTDs #UHC #AfricaHealth #HealthForAll