Fifty African Union (AU) Member States have endorsed a groundbreaking digital micro-planning tool designed to accelerate the elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), bolster national health systems, and reduce long-term dependence on foreign aid.
In a statement published Thursday, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) announced the launch of the platform during a high-level workshop held from June 17 to 20.
Developed by Africa CDC in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), the END Fund, and other technical partners, the platform is intended to help AU Member States create customized, cost-effective action plans targeting the elimination of six major NTDs by 2030.
According to WHO estimates, diseases such as intestinal worms, lymphatic filariasis, trachoma, schistosomiasis, and river blindness currently affect over 565 million people in Africa—causing disability, social stigma, and in some cases, death.
Dr. Raji Tajudeen, Acting Deputy Director General of Africa CDC, said the initiative will empower countries to better map available resources, advocate for sustainable financing, and implement Africa-led strategies in the fight against NTDs.
“With shrinking donor support and rising demand for health solutions, the need for locally driven, resource-efficient planning has never been greater,” he said. “This platform equips countries with the tools needed to sustain and strengthen their NTD programmes.”
Dr. Solomon Zewdu, CEO of the END Fund, echoed the urgency for local investment in health, saying:
“We can no longer rely solely on foreign aid. Sustainable and collaborative financing models are the way forward.”
Also speaking, Professor Julio Rakotonirina, AU Commission Director for Health and Humanitarian Affairs, noted that the initiative aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which considers the elimination of NTDs not just a public health triumph, but a key development milestone for the continent.
Editing by Daniel Adejo
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