February 3rd marks Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) day, and as the world celebrates, Hope for Future Generations (HFFG) is making a passionate call to action to end NTDs.
It is time to unite and act together to address the socio-cultural barriers and inequalities that hinder the eradication of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) in Ghana.
It’s an issue that affects all 16 regions in Ghana, with an estimated 32 million Ghanaians at risk of contracting one or more NTDs. Those living with NTDs constantly face stigma and discrimination from society, as well as neglect by their own families and communities. They are often left in poor and vulnerable conditions, which increases the disease burden and widens their exclusion from society. This leads to disfigurement and permanent disability for some.
In line with this year’s theme, “Unite. Act. Eliminate.” HFFG is urging the spearheading of community empowerment initiatives to bring about positive change. Recognizing the urgency of addressing NTDs, HFFG is committed to playing a leading role in the fight against these diseases.
With support from Anesvad and partners including Rural Watch, HFFG is implementing a community empowerment and awareness creation project on NTDs in ten (10) selected districts in the Eastern region of Ghana. The districts are Okere, Lower-Manya Krobo, Kwahu West, Asuogyaman, Denkyembour, Kwaebibirem, Achiase, Birim South, Birim North, and Akyemansah.
The project has seen significant contributions to active case search in communities by forty (40) trained community volunteers and ten (10) trained nurses. Over 100 self-care and wound dressing kits have been distributed to clients confirmed to have Elephantiasis and Buruli Ulcer, helping them effectively manage their wounds. Additionally, 260 health workers and 80 teachers, including SHEP Coordinators, 42 Environmental Health Officers, and 20 Water and Sanitation Management Team members, have been sensitized to foster collaboration among key stakeholders for joint action, awareness creation, advocacy at all levels, and to enhance surveillance efforts for NTDs in the project implementing districts.
With support from the Eastern Regional Health Directorate, over 350 cases of Elephantiasis, Buruli Ulcer, Leprosy, Scabies, and Yaws were confirmed between October 2023 and January 2023 and are currently receiving treatment. Fifty-three beneficiaries have also been registered on the National Health Insurance Scheme.
Ahead of the global celebration, the Executive Director of HFFG, Mrs. Cecilia Senoo, emphasized that “Neglected Tropical Diseases disproportionately affect the most vulnerable populations. It is our collective responsibility to break the cycle of neglect and empower communities to champion their health. HFFG is proud to lead the way in promoting unity and action towards the elimination of NTDs.”
“We call on the general public to add their voices to domestic resource mobilization for NTDs and support in advocating for early and proper health care-seeking behavior in our communities. NTDs are preventable and treatable. We all are susceptible to it, especially those who live in poor environments. However, access to basic health services can ensure the prevention and treatment of NTDs for everyone.”
