Media’s Role Crucial in Eliminating Neglected Tropical Diseases in Africa

Cotonou: Mr Bamba Youssouf, President of the Africa Media Network for the Promotion of Health and Environment (REMAPSEN), has emphasized the vital role of media in the fight to eradicate Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) in Africa. He described journalists as "drivers of social change," highlighting their essential involvement in elimination efforts. According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Youssouf voiced these sentiments at the opening of the Fourth REMAPSEN Forum on NTDs in Cotonou, Benin. He noted that the ongoing global struggle against these diseases reflects a lack of active media involvement. Youssouf urged for sustained support to enable journalists to increase visibility for these illnesses, often referred to as "diseases of the poor." He stressed the necessity of media engagement for a successful fight against NTDs. NTDs encompass around 20 illnesses, including guinea worm, leprosy, lymphatic filariasis (elephantiasis), and onchocerciasis (river blindness). These communicable illnesses disproportionat ely impact vulnerable populations in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. They result in severe disfigurement, chronic pain, disability, stigma, and even death, with over a billion people globally at risk. Africa bears more than 40 percent of this burden. These diseases are termed "neglected" due to historically insufficient attention and funding. According to stakeholders, while Ghana, Togo, and Benin have successfully eliminated four NTDs, there is a need to enhance efforts to eradicate others. The forum saw participation from thirty journalists across Africa, development partners, and health stakeholders. Dr Konan Kouamé Jean, the World Health Organisation (WHO) Resident Representative in Benin, reaffirmed the organization's commitment to supporting the regional fight, emphasizing that eliminating NTDs is a matter of social justice. The event, hosted by the Government of Benin, also underscored the necessity for sustainable domestic financing. Madam Assavedo Sibylle, Depu ty Cabinet Director at the Ministry of Health, called for stronger support from local organizations and partners to maintain progress in combatting NTDs. She highlighted the role of journalists in raising visibility to influence budgetary allocations for NTD elimination. The two-day forum concluded with an awards ceremony sponsored by Dr. Michel Sidibe, AU Special Envoy for the African Medicines Agency and former UNAIDS Executive Director. Development partners such as Speak-Up Africa, the Gates Foundation, and the Raoul Follereau Foundation supported this year's REMAPSEN Media Forum. Ms Emefa Atiamoah Eli, Joy News Editor at the Multimedia Group and Country Coordinator for REMAPSEN Ghana, was awarded Best Journalist in Health Reporting - Radio Category among her regional peers.