Ghana is making significant strides in the fight against neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), with several long-dreaded infections now under control.

This progress was highlighted at the opening of a two-day stakeholder workshop in Accra, themed “Reaffirming National Commitment and Strengthening Partnerships for Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs).”

At the event, the Ghana Health Service (GHS) announced a major public health milestone—the successful elimination of Guinea worm, trachoma, and sleeping sickness.

In addition, cases of river blindness (onchocerciasis) and lymphatic filariasis have seen a substantial decline, reflecting years of sustained intervention and collaboration.

Background

NTDs are a group of infectious diseases that disproportionately affect poor and rural communities. Ghana has historically been endemic to 14 of the 20 NTDs identified by the World Health Organization (WHO). Through mass drug administration, improved sanitation, and community-based interventions, the country has made remarkable progress in controlling and eliminating several of these diseases. However, sustaining these gains requires continued funding and coordinated efforts.

Programme Manager for Neglected Tropical Diseases at the GHS, Dr. Joseph Larbi Opare, highlighted the timeline of achievements: Guinea worm was eliminated in 2015, trachoma in 2018, and human African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness) in 2023.

He noted that while the country has made commendable progress, sustaining these gains remains a challenge due to dwindling donor support.

“Our biggest funder used to be USAID,” Dr. Larbi Opare explained. “But due to a stop order, there is now a funding gap. We are appealing to other partners, local philanthropic institutions, research bodies, and the government to step in and support surveillance and community-based interventions,” he said.

Also speaking at the event, Joshua Baidoo, Director of Strategy and Integrated Programmes at World Vision Ghana, reaffirmed his organisation’s commitment to the cause.

“World Vision Ghana’s leadership is dedicated to bringing together all stakeholders in the fight against neglected tropical diseases,” he said. “We are working closely with the Ministry of Health, Ghana Health Service, and other development partners to find sustainable solutions,” he added.

With renewed commitment from both the government and partners such as World Vision Ghana, the focus now shifts to ensuring that every community remains free from preventable infections.