The End Fund Extends Funding to Eradicate Neglected Tropical Diseases in Nigeria by 2030
In a significant move to combat Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), the End Fund, a private philanthropic initiative, has pledged to extend its funding services in Nigeria until 2030. This commitment aims to intensify efforts to eliminate NTDs, which have a devastating impact on the health and well-being of millions of people worldwide.
NTDs are a group of 20 debilitating conditions prevalent in tropical areas, affecting over one billion people in impoverished communities, according to the World Health Organisation. These diseases are caused by various pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungi, and toxins. Despite their significant impact, NTDs have historically received inadequate attention on the global health agenda.
Nigeria is one of the most endemic countries for NTDs, carrying approximately 25% of Africa’s NTD burden. The country is plagued by diseases such as elephantiasis, soil-transmitted helminthiasis, river blindness, trachoma, schistosomiasis, snakebites, leishmaniasis, Human African Trypanosomiasis, mycetoma, rabies, leprosy, yaws, fascioliasis, and scabies.
The End Fund’s Vice President of Programmes, Carol Karutu, made the pledge during an assessment of Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to combat NTDs. She stressed the importance of partnerships, investor engagement, and community involvement in the fight against these diseases. "We obtain funding from philanthropists and investors worldwide," Karutu explained. "Our goal is to build a community that can work together to end NTDs in Nigeria by 2030."
Dr Chukwuemeka Makata, the National Onchocerciasis Programme Manager at the Federal Ministry of Health, appealed to the End Fund for continued support, stating that sustained funding would be crucial in saving lives and halting the transmission of NTDs in Nigeria.
The End Fund’s efforts have already shown significant impact in the country. Juliana Amanyi-Enegela, Senior Programme Manager for NTDs at Christian Blind Mission, highlighted that her organisation had utilised the End Fund’s funding to administer drugs to over 500 people for lymphatic filariasis, one of the NTDs. The End Fund has also supported the Federal Capital Territory in its fight against river blindness, lymphatic filariasis, and other diseases.
As Nigeria continues its battle against NTDs, the End Fund’s extended commitment offers a glimmer of hope. With the support of partners, investors, and the community, the country may finally be able to turn the tide against these debilitating diseases and write a new chapter in its fight for better health.
