The Gates Foundation has reaffirmed its commitment to the elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), urging African journalists to play a more deliberate role in sustaining gains and accelerating progress toward eradication.

Delivering a keynote address at the opening of the 2025 REMAPSEN Media Forum and Awards in Benin, the Deputy Director of the Gates Foundation's Advocacy and Communications Program in Africa, Thoko Elphick-Pooley, described the media as “agents of change” in the global fight against NTDs.

The forum, organised by the African Media Network for the Promotion of Health and the Environment (REMAPSEN), was held on the eve of World NTD Day 2026, a moment Ms. Elphick-Pooley described as "particularly meaningful".

“Neglected tropical diseases still affect more than one billion people worldwide, the majority of whom live in Africa. These diseases disproportionately affect the most vulnerable communities, undermining health, disrupting children’s education, reducing productivity and perpetuating cycles of poverty,” she said.

Despite major progress made through the combined efforts of governments, scientists, civil society and development partners, Ms. Elphick-Pooley cautioned that the gains remain fragile.

“Sustaining and accelerating progress requires continued mobilisation, renewed political will and, critically, accurate, accessible and compelling information. This is where the role of the media becomes indispensable.”

Journalists as Drivers of Social Justice

The Gates Foundation official stressed that journalists are not passive conveyors of information but key actors whose work directly influences health outcomes.

By amplifying the voices of affected communities, highlighting scientific breakthroughs, holding leaders accountable and countering misinformation, she said the media helps turn policy commitments into tangible impact.

The Foundation, she added, is proud to support REMAPSEN’s work in strengthening journalist capacity, promoting evidence-based reporting and encouraging responsible, human-centred storytelling on public health issues.

“Eliminating neglected tropical diseases is not only a public health imperative; it is a matter of social justice, equity and human dignity. No child, no community and no country should be left behind.”

As discussions continue after the forum, the Gates Foundation reiterated its pledge to work closely with African governments, regional institutions, technical and financial partners, and media networks such as REMAPSEN.

“We hope the conversations held here will inspire concrete action, strengthen collaboration and amplify voices that carry hope for a future free of neglected tropical diseases,” Ms. Elphick-Pooley concluded.