Empowering Influencers  in the Fight Against Neglected Tropical Diseases: Insights from Sensitization Workshop in Kenya

By Judith Olang, Country Focal Point

In April 2024, a 2day workshop  took place at the Four Points Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya, marking a significant step in Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) advocacy by Speak Up Africa (SUA) in Kenya. The Sensitization Workshop for influencers aimed to empower community leaders or  influencers from various regions affected by NTDs (coastal, western and lake region) with the knowledge and skills they need to make a difference.

The heart of the workshop was to equip these local influencers , instiling knowledge and helping them understand   NTDs better and communicate effectively about these diseases. This knowledge would help them engage actively and mobilize their communities. Participants included representatives from the Ministry of Health’s Vector Borne and Neglected Tropical Diseases Unit, influential public health advocates, and members of non-governmental organizations like AMREF and the African Institute for Health & Development. Together, they participated in interactive sessions designed to network, boost advocacy skills and deepen understanding of NTDs.

One key focus of the workshop was the importance of advocacy. Participants learned how raising awareness, gathering resources, and pushing for policy changes can help fight NTDs. They looked at successful examples of advocacy campaigns and discussed practical ways to increase public awareness and influence opinions.

A highlight of the event was a session on engaging influencers. Participants were shown how to identify and collaborate with other influencers. They learned how to create compelling content and messages that would resonate with their audiences, drawing inspiration from their experiences.

Another crucial topic was resource mobilization. Participants discussed how to gather local resources to support their advocacy, aiming to reduce dependence on external donors and increase local ownership of these efforts. They also explored ways to help integrate NTD programs into broader national health system to ensure long-term sustainability.

Policy engagement was also a significant theme. Participants shared ideas and techniques for engaging policymakers and government officials, highlighting the importance of using evidence-based information to influence policy decisions. They looked at effective strategies for lobbying and advocating for change, learning from examples that had worked well in other contexts.

The workshop also underscored the power of digital platforms. Participants were sensitized on how to use social media and other digital tools to raise awareness about NTDs. Case studies of successful digital campaigns provided valuable insights into how digital storytelling can be a powerful tool for advocacy.

Community engagement was a recurring theme throughout the workshop. Participants were inspired by examples of community-led advocacy initiatives and grassroots campaigns that demonstrated the impact of local involvement in driving change. The workshop aimed to equip these champions with the skills and knowledge to create a ripple effect, leading to increased awareness, resource mobilization, and policy influence.

The Sensitization Workshop for influencers was a pivotal event in NTDs advocacy by SUA. By empowering these local influencers with the tools and knowledge they need, SUA hopes to see them lead their communities towards the control and eventual elimination of NTDs. This effort is not just about fighting diseases; it’s about strengthening  and building a healthier future for themselves and their communities.