Strategy for the Expanded Special Project for Elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases in the WHO African Region 2026-2030

Overview

This Strategy for the Expanded Special Project for Elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases in the WHO African Region, 2026–2030 focuses on accelerating the elimination of the five most prevalent NTDs in the WHO African Region that are amenable to preventive chemotherapy (PC-NTDs): lymphatic filariasis, onchocerciasis, schistosomiasis, soil-transmitted helminthiases, and trachoma. In line with WHO’s 2021–2030 NTD roadmap, the strategy provides a comprehensive framework to advance elimination goals, strengthen national ownership and support countries through coordinated, evidence-based action.

In 2024 alone, ESPEN facilitated access to treatment for 52.6 million people, coordinated the delivery of nearly 1.2 billion tablets, trained over 580 country programme officers, and processed more than 130 000 entomological and 2000 epidemiological samples as part of its impact assessment and surveillance activities.

Despite these achievements, PC-NTDs under ESPEN’s focus are currently not on track to achieve the WHO 2030 roadmap targets. The sector faces additional challenges due to recent decreases in bilateral and multilateral aid, including the cessation of USAID funding. These changes are expected to affect implementation, technical support and capacity-building activities, potentially intensifying competition for resources among affected countries and further emphasizing ESPEN’s critical role.