Research, collaboration can drive NTD fight
COLLABORATION between the Government and its partners is needed to develop new tools and strategies that will strengthen the effectiveness of interventions to address the burden of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) in Zimbabwe.
Health and Child Care Secretary Dr Aspect Maunganidze yesterday told journalists at a media sensitisation workshop on NTDs that research and innovation could drive the fight against the diseases.
“Government firmly believes in the power of collaboration, innovation, and sustainable solutions to address the burden of NTDs in Zimbabwe. Government is committed to driving research and innovation in NTD control. We continue to collaborate with local research institutions and partners to develop new tools, technologies, and strategies to enhance the effectiveness of NTD interventions in Zimbabwe,” he said.
NTDs are a diverse group of 20 conditions that are mainly prevalent in tropical zones, which affect more than 1 billion people who live in impoverished communities. They are caused by a variety of pathogens including viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungi and toxins. These diseases cause devastating health, social and economic consequences to more than one billion people. The epidemiology of NTDs is complex and often related to environmental conditions.
Schistosomiasis (bilharzia), soil transmitted helminthiasis (roundworms, hookworms and whipworms), lymphatic filariasis (elephantiasis) and trachoma are chemotherapy preventable NTDs of public health importance in Zimbabwe. Other NTDs that are specified in the country include Rabies, Anthrax, snakebites, Leprosy, Sleeping Sickness and scabies.
Dr Maunganidze said the Government was committed to working with local communities and other stakeholders to tackle NTDs head-on.
This includes ensuring the availability and accessibility of preventive measures, such as mass drug administration, vector control, and hygiene promotion.
“We recognise the importance of engaging communities in the fight against NTDs. Our interventions have prioritised community education and awareness campaigns to promote behavior change, improve hygiene practices, and reduce the risk of NTD transmission. Additionally, we continuously train healthcare workers to diagnose and treat NTDs effectively,” he said.
He said strengthening policy frameworks and integrating NTD control into national health agendas would ensure sustained progress in the fight against these diseases. The four-day media workshop is expected to create robust interaction between media and the Ministry of Health to highlight the burden of NTDs and the strategies being implemented to combat them.
Dr Maunganidze said it would also allow for the exchange of ideas and engagement in peer review to enhance overall professional competence, which is of critical importance to nation building.
“I am therefore pleased to inform you that MoHCC will not only sustain this platform but has plans to upgrade it as one of its core programmes, in appreciation of the strategic role of the media in the promotion of our cherished organisational values,” he said.