Edo Govt Partners with Carter Centre to Combat Neglected Tropical Diseases

The Edo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (EDSPHCDA), in collaboration with the Carter Centre, recently organized a comprehensive workshop aimed at addressing Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) in the state.

The two-day event, which included the inauguration of the Edo State NTD Technical Advisory Committee, took place at the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy (JOOPSA) in Benin City from April 4th to 5th, 2024.

The workshop focused on establishing and guiding the State’s NTD Technical Advisory Committee, outlining its responsibilities, providing updates on NTD prevalence in the region, presenting guidelines for the NTD Master Plan, and crafting a strategic roadmap for combating these diseases effectively.

Led by Honorable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Samuel Alli, the committee comprises key stakeholders such as Professor Mrs. Vivian Omuemu from the University of Benin/ University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Dr. Omosigho Izedonmwen from the EDSPHCDA, and Dr. Efeomon Eseigbe, among others from various government ministries and organizations involved in public health initiatives.

During the workshop, Dr. Alli emphasized the gravity of Neglected Tropical Diseases, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts to mitigate their impact on vulnerable populations. He acknowledged the pivotal role played by the Carter Centre and the World Health Organization in advancing NTD control measures in Edo State.

He said, “Neglected Tropical Diseases are a class of crippling illnesses that disproportionately affect the world’s most vulnerable populations. These illnesses are more common in impoverished regions with little access to resources and healthcare. The burden of NTDs affects the lives of our citizens and impedes socioeconomic development in Edo State, as it does in many other areas.”

Highlighting some of the accomplishments achieved through partnerships with the Carter Centre, Dr. Alli showcased significant milestones in NTD eradication and treatment, including Guinea Worm Eradication, distribution of medicines, River Blindness Control, Lymphatic Filariasis Elimination, and Schistosomiasis Education and Treatment initiatives.

Looking ahead, Dr. Alli outlined key objectives to strengthen surveillance, improve access to treatment, raise awareness, and foster community collaboration to combat NTDs effectively. He emphasized the need for sustained dedication and strategic partnerships to achieve public health transformation in Edo State.

The event also featured insights from Mrs. Happy Poko, the Edo NTD Coordinator, on the progress of NTD control efforts in the state. As the State Technical Advisory Committee began developing the NTD Master Plan, Prof. Vivian Omuemu expressed gratitude on behalf of the committee and pledged to work towards reducing NTD prevalence in Edo State by 2027, aligning with the State’s strategic health goals.