Africa unites to end Neglected Tropical Diseases by 2030: A call to GO BEYOND

Every year, on January 30th, the world unites to observe World NTD Day, highlighting the urgent need to address Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), which still affect over a billion people globally. This year marks a pivotal moment in the fight against NTDs. Across the African continent, from Senegal to Ethiopia, Kenya to Burkina Faso and Niger, young leaders, policymakers, and communities are uniting with an unwavering commitment: to eliminate NTDs by 2030.

As part of Speak Up Africa’s GO BEYOND initiative, governments, youth and civil society are raising awareness and driving advocacy for increased resources, to ensure life-saving treatments reach the most vulnerable, and to call for better integration of NTDs into health agendas. The GO BEYOND initiative also invites artists, athletes, and communities living with NTDs to use their platforms and influence to accelerate change.

Senegal: Youth taking the lead

In Dakar, young people are leading the charge against NTDs in unexpected ways. A slam poetry session, mural painting, and a high-energy basketball game – held in partnership with the Basketball Africa League (BAL) – united athletes, artists, and youth leaders. These young champions are talking about NTDs and acting to mobilize others to join the fight. Social media influencers including Khaby Lame, the most followed TikTok user as of 2025, Faynara, known for her viral dance and comedy videos, and Doudou Fait des Vidéos, a popular content creator known for his humorous skits, used their massive reach to amplify the message, inspiring many across Africa. By signing a commitment charter, they pledged to use their platforms for the fight against NTDs, becoming part of the No to NTDs Champions Club, a movement of youth determined to end NTDs by 2030. Sobel Aziz Ngom, President of the Consortium Jeunesse Senegal and NTD Champion, remarked after the youth awareness workshop on NTDs: « The youth are the best vehicle for engagement. When young people understand an issue and are allowed to act, they seize it. »

Burkina Faso: From strategy to action

In Burkina Faso, the government has made NTD elimination a national priority. From integrating NTD prevention into school curricula to supporting community health programs, the country is ensuring long-term impact.   On February 7, 2025, Health Minister, Dr. Robert Kargougou led a World NTD Day ceremony in Ouagadougou . The event brought together public health officials, civil society, and health experts to discuss progress and challenges in the fight against NTDs.   Irène Zoungrana, Executive Director of Vision Nouvelle, a member of the No to NTDs coalition praised the successful awareness campaigns and treatment distribution initiatives, which have reached thousands of vulnerable people across the country. Minister Kargougou reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding treatment and prevention efforts, while recognizing challenges like resource mobilization and access to remote areas. « We must intensify our efforts to ensure treatments reach every corner of the country” he said, emphasizing the goal of eliminating NTDs by 2030.  The day was a reminder of the collective power of governments, civil society, and local communities to combat NTDs.

Ethiopia: A collective push for eradication

Ethiopia stands as a powerful example of the strength of collective action in the fight against NTDs. By prioritizing diseases such as lymphatic filariasis and guinea worm through strategies that involve medicine distribution and infrastructure improvements, the country is on track to eliminate NTDs. On World NTD Day, the NTD Research Symposium in Dire Dawa provided a platform for government officials, WHO representatives, and NTD champions to assess progress and identify challenges in NTD elimination. The event, attended by over 190 participants, featured presentations from researchers and program officers, who advocated for increased resource mobilization and enhanced data systems for timely NTD surveillance and response. A « Call for Action » was read by Professor Getnet Tadele, emphasizing the need for stronger political will to combat NTDs. Delivered in Amharic, the message underscored Ethiopia’s ongoing commitment to eradicating NTDs and highlighted the critical role of political leadership and community engagement. Ethiopia’s efforts showcase the potential of collaboration and data-driven approaches in achieving NTD elimination by 2030.

Kenya: The next generation speaks up

Kenya is enabling its youth to lead the fight against NTDs through digital campaigns, sports events, and grassroots activism. Through a partnership with Speak Up Africa, and the Bungoma Youth WASH Organization, young people are mobilizing their communities and spreading awareness about NTDs. From football tournaments to social media challenges, Kenyan youth are making NTD knowledge accessible to all. Kelvin Nyaga, Co-founder and Communications Manager at GANE, emphasized the importance of social media in this movement: “Social media is a game-changer; it’s a bridge that connects people affected by neglected tropical diseases to those who can provide solutions. It allows for the instant sharing of experiences and can quickly mobilize support globally.” With the help of community health workers, who are ensuring that treatments reach even the most remote areas, Kenya is setting an example of how youth-driven advocacy can amplify the movement to eliminate NTDs by 2030.

Niger: A nation mobilized

In Niger, large-scale mass drug administration campaigns are driving efforts to eliminate diseases like lymphatic filariasis and onchocerciasis. This year, Niger made history by officially becoming the first African country to eliminate onchocerciasis, commonly known as river blindness.

During World NTD Day, the country highlighted the theme “Unite, Act, Eliminate,” with a multi-sectoral coalition emphasizing the socio-economic and health impacts of NTDs.  Colonel Major Garba Hakimi, Minister of Public Health, noted Niger’s progress, but acknowledged challenges like integrating NTD activities into broader health programs. « However, challenges remain, » he added, « such as managing complications, especially for the poorest populations. » WHO representative Casimir Manengu urged continued action « Thanks to leadership and the support from partners, significant progress has been made. Yet, without treatment, many remain severely disabled, socially excluded, and discriminated against. » Niger’s efforts showcase the power of collaboration and sustained commitment in the fight against NTDs.

Guinea: A historic milestone

In 2025, Guinea achieved a historic milestone by eliminating Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT – sleeping sickness) as a public health problem.

On World NTD Day, the country celebrated this achievement and reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating other NTDs, such as trachoma, leprosy, and lymphatic filariasis.  The event, attended by political and health authorities and international partners, including the World Health Organization (WHO) highlighted Guinea’s remarkable progress after more than 25 years of sustained efforts. Heartfelt testimonials from individuals affected by HAT underscored the impact of these efforts. Guinea’s success shows what can be achieved through dedication, collaboration, and strategic planning. It also emphasizes the need for continued vigilance and proactive health education, particularly in schools, to ensure future generations are equipped to continue the fight.

Benin: Community-led innovation

Benin is demonstrating the power of community-driven advocacy in the battle against NTDs.   Over 300 young community health workers from Klouékanmè-Toviklin-Lalo participated in a charity match, using sport as a tool to raise awareness. Additionally, more than 50 motorcycle taxi drivers led a « green march » through markets and public spaces to spread NTD knowledge. Rural women also played a vital role, urging their communities to support mass treatment campaigns through songs and traditional dances.  Benin’s success in eliminating diseases like Guinea worm disease and sleeping sickness serves as a model for other African nations, with a clear focus on local engagement and sustainable solutions.

Join the Movement: GO BEYOND

Eliminating NTDs across Africa requires action from governments, communities, and individuals. Through the GO BEYOND initiative, Speak Up Africa is amplifying voices that have been overlooked, ensuring NTDs stay a priority with community-driven, person-centered solutions.

You can make a difference by joining local initiatives, sharing information to raise awareness, and supporting organizations like Speak Up Africa that are leading the charge. Let’s go beyond in this collective fight: NTDs must be eliminated by 2030.

For more information contact: djibril.faye@speakupafrica.org