Rwanda Sets Ambitious Goal: Eradicating NTDs by 2030

January 22, 2025

The announcement was made during the second International Conference on Neglected Tropical Diseases (InCORNTD) in Africa, held in Kigali

(3 Minutes Read)

Rwanda has announced its ambitious plan to eliminate neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) by 2030. The government aims to tackle health challenges that have long plagued communities in developing nations. It is optimistic that with continued research, sustainable prevention programs, and coordinated efforts, this goal is achievable.

The announcement was made during the second International Conference on Neglected Tropical Diseases (InCORNTD) in Africa, held in Kigali under the theme “Partnering to Eliminate NTDs.” The event, which runs until January 24, 2025, has brought together over 500 experts, policymakers, and stakeholders from across the continent to share strategies and solutions for combating these diseases.

Dr. Aimable Mbituyumuremyi, Head of the Malaria and Other Neglected Diseases Department at the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC), highlighted the prevalence of NTDs in the country. “Intestinal worms, for example, affect 48% of adults and 41% of children. These numbers are concerning,” he said, emphasizing the urgent need for action. These diseases often lead to malnutrition and anemia, particularly in children and pregnant women.

Rwanda’s efforts to combat NTDs have already shown success. In 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed the country had eliminated sleeping sickness, a disease caused by the tsetse fly. Rwanda has eradicated six other diseases, including five skin conditions and Human African Trypanosomiasis.

However, significant obstacles remain. Poor sanitation, limited access to clean water, and inadequate health infrastructure continue to hinder progress. Many sectors are yet to coordinate their efforts in the fight against NTDs fully.

Dr. Masoka Papa Fallah, Deputy Director General of the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), stressed the importance of regional collaboration and increased research into treatments. Rwanda also presented research on yaws, a bacterial infection affecting the Virunga region. 6,000 cases have been reported. The country is focusing on treatment and monitoring and hopes to share its experience with other nations.

Globally, the WHO has identified 21 NTDs, and Rwanda is focusing on addressing intestinal worms, yaws, guinea worm, tapeworm, bilharzia, snake bites, rabies, and leprosy. By improving access to clean water, enhancing sanitation, and raising awareness, Rwanda hopes to prevent these diseases and save lives.

Children, often the most vulnerable to NTDs, stand to benefit the most from these efforts. With sustained focus and collaboration, Rwanda’s vision of eradicating NTDs could serve as a model for the rest of Africa, offering future generations a healthier and more secure future.