Kenya Receives Donation of 15.2 Million NTD Medicines to Combat Neglected Tropical Diseases
October 14, 2024
By Samuel Ouma
Health CS Deborah Barasa receiving NTD medicines from Dr. Abdourahmane Diallo, WHO Representative in Kenya on October 14, 2024
Kenya's fight against Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) received a significant boost on Monday, October 14, 2024, following a donation of 15,215,000 tablets of essential medicines from the World Health Organization (WHO)
The USD 1.6 million donation is intended for the country's impending mass drug administration (MDA) campaign, targeting high-burden regions affected by diseases like lymphatic filariasis, soil-transmitted helminths, and schistosomiasis.
During the handover ceremony, Health Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Barasa emphasized the significance of this contribution in tackling the health concerns confronting vulnerable communities across Kenya.
She stressed the need for mass drug administration campaigns to control and eventually eliminate NTDs in the country, particularly in areas where these diseases continue to be common.
“The support we are receiving today will considerably improve our ability to give important medicines to the communities that require them the most,” said Dr. Deborah.
Dr. Barasa also thanked WHO and other partners for their ongoing support in improving Kenya's healthcare system.
The Cabinet Secretary also confirmed the receipt of Mpox testing kits from USAID, which will help the government detect and respond to viral disease outbreaks.
Dr. Barasa also thanked WHO and other partners for their ongoing support in improving Kenya's healthcare system.
She further confirmed the receipt of Mpox testing kits from USAID, which will help the government detect and respond to viral disease outbreaks.
On his part, Dr. Abdourahmane Diallo, WHO Representative in Kenya, reaffirmed the organization's commitment to supporting Kenya's health initiatives.
“This donation is part of a bigger effort to help Kenya achieve its objective of eliminating NTDs such as schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiases. Our common goal is to promote the health and well-being of those impacted by these disorders,” said Dr. Diallo.
The MDA campaign, which is set to begin this month, will deliver the donated medicines to areas where NTDs are prevalent.
