Journalists have been urged to play a stronger role in tackling stigma, mobilizing resources and promoting inclusive narratives around Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs).
This call was made at the opening of the 4th REMAPSEN Media Forum on NTDs in Cotonou, Benin, where stakeholders emphasized that effective media engagement is critical to eliminating the diseases in affected communities as part of activities to mark World NTDs Day slated for January 30.
Neglected Tropical Diseases are a group of more than 20 preventable and treatable illnesses, including guinea worm, leprosy, elephantiasis and river blindness.
They predominantly affect poor and rural populations, causing disability, reducing productivity and trapping communities in poverty. Ghana, Togo and Benin have already eliminated four NTDs, with ongoing efforts to eliminate others across the region.
Speaking at the opening Media Forum on NTDs in Cotonou, Benin, President of the Africa Media Network for the Promotion of Health and Environment, REMAPSEN, Bamba Youssouf, says the fight against Neglected Tropical Diseases cannot be won without strong media involvement.
” If we are still talking about eliminating NTDs today, it is because the media has not been actively involved,” he noted.
The Benin government also called for increased domestic funding and stronger local partnerships, highlighting the media’s role in influencing budget support for NTD elimination.
Deputy Cabinet Director at the Ministry of Health, Assavedo Sibylle, called for stronger support from local organizations and partners to sustain gains made in the fight against NTDs.
More than 30 journalists from across Africa took part in the two-day forum, alongside health experts and development partners. The World Health Organization’s Resident Representative in Benin, Dr. Konan Kouamé Jean, described the meeting as part of activities marking World NTDs Day 2026, stressing that eliminating the diseases is a matter of social justice.
