Kenya on January 30 joined the global community in commemorating World Neglected Tropical Diseases (WNTD) Day, with national celebrations held at the KCB Grounds in Kajiado County. The event focused on raising awareness about the heavy burden of NTDs on the world’s poorest and most marginalized populations, while renewing calls for accelerated control, elimination and eventual eradication of the diseases.
Speaking on behalf of Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, Kenya National Public Health Institute (KNPHI) Acting Director General Dr Kamene Kimenye underscored the importance of regional and cross-border collaboration in the fight against NTDs. She said Kenya remains committed to working closely with neighboring countries, particularly Tanzania, to strengthen disease surveillance, harmonize service delivery, support mobile and border communities, and ensure continuity of care.
The World Health Organization (WHO) Acting Country Representative Dr Neema Kimambo reaffirmed the organisation’s continued support to Kenya, commending the country for implementing an essential package of care aimed at improving the quality of life of people affected by debilitating NTDs.
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Kajiado County Executive Committee (CEC) Member for Health Alex Kilowua noted that the impact of NTDs on local communities’ social and economic well-being has significantly reduced due to sustained mass drug administration (MDA) programmes, describing the approach as an effective method for managing many infections.
Development partners present, led by AMREF Kenya, the End Fund and the African Institute for Health and Development (AIHD), praised the strong partnership with KNPHI, saying it has enhanced public health security, disease surveillance and response across the country.
Neglected tropical diseases are a group of infections caused by viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungi and toxins, and are most prevalent in isolated and marginalized communities in tropical regions. Globally, they affect an estimated one billion people and are linked to long-term health, social and economic consequences.
By Benedict Aoya
