Ministry allocates 6.98bn/- to address NTDs

DODOMA: MINISTRY of Health has allocated a total of 6.98bn/- from domestic sources to implement various programmes and interventions aimed at eliminating neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) over the next two years.

As part of a broader national strategy to address NTDs, Health Minister Mohamed Mchengerwa told journalists in Dodoma recently that the Government is set to launch a mass drug administration campaign in communities and among school-age children.

The campaign will run for eight months starting this February, according to the Health Minister. The Minister unveiled the plan during the climax of World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day, which is observed annually on January 30, stressing the importance of residents in all targeted regions turning out in large numbers and participating actively in the preventive drug administration campaign.

“It is important for citizens to take the medication to treat and protect themselves, and to reduce transmission to others. These medicines improve individual health and help build a nation of healthy and energetic people capable of contributing to national development,” he said.

Mr Mchengerwa also urged leaders at all levels to continue educating the public about these diseases and the importance of preventive treatment.

“I urge leaders and citizens to continue promoting and observing environmental and personal hygiene as one of the key ways to prevent neglected tropical diseases,” he added.

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He explained that within the past month, the ministry had conducted health education campaign to raise public awareness on how to prevent NTDs and had also organised special outreach camps to provide minor eye surgeries to correct affected eyelids.

The Minister added that Tanzania is currently focusing on controlling five major diseases: Lymphatic filariasis (elephantiasis), trachoma, onchocerciasis, schistosomiasis and intestinal worms.

He said the Government continues to reduce the prevalence of these diseases through annual preventive mass drug administration campaigns. Mr Mchengerwa further noted the Government plans to phase out the use of paper-based reports at council and regional health facilities for disease campaign reporting, citing data inaccuracies, challenges in data aggregation, and delays in accessing timely information.

He said that in recognition of the magnitude of the problem and the challenges faced by affected communities, the Government has invested in service delivery and comprehensive interventions aimed at improving public health in the fight against neglected tropical diseases.