Partner with ESPEN
Unite for a Future Free from Neglected Tropical Diseases in the African Region
The Expanded Special Project for the Elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases (ESPEN) is built on the principle of collaboration for impact. Working hand in hand with governments, donors, pharmaceutical partners, NGOs, research institutions, and communities, ESPEN serves as a regional platform for coordinated action toward the elimination of five major neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) that are amenable to preventive chemotherapy (PC): lymphatic filariasis, onchocerciasis, schistosomiasis, soil-transmitted helminthiases, and trachoma.
Through this collective effort, ESPEN fosters an inclusive and data-driven partnership ecosystem where every stakeholder plays a vital role — from donating medicines and strengthening laboratory networks to advancing innovations and scaling up integrated interventions.
Our work is guided by the WHO NTD Roadmap 2021–2030 and the ESPEN Strategic Framework 2026–2030, which emphasize country leadership, data-driven decision-making, equity, and sustainability. Together, we are advancing the vision of an Africa free of NTDs — one where health systems are stronger, communities are empowered, and no one is left behind.
What we achieve together
- Accelerate Programme Delivery
We coordinate access to donated medicines and diagnostics through the Joint Application Package (JAP) and strengthen supply chain systems to ensure timely delivery and accountability. - Drive Integrated Approaches
ESPEN promotes collaboration across One Health, vector control, WASH, and health information systems (DHIS2/LMIS) to build sustainable, cross-sectoral solutions. - Empower Countries and Communities
We build capacity through technical assistance, training, and data systems such as the ESPEN Portal, ESPEN Collect, and IU Planner, enabling countries to plan, monitor, and report progress effectively. - Harness Innovation and Data
ESPEN develops and deploys AI-powered analytics and model-based geostatistics to guide targeting, surveillance, and resource optimization for elimination. - Promote Equity and Inclusion
Our partnerships ensure that interventions reach the most vulnerable populations and that women and youth play active roles in NTD leadership — supported through initiatives like the Mwele Malecela Mentorship Programme (MMM).
Partnership in Action
ESPEN’s success depends on the shared vision and contributions of its partners. Together, we:
- Coordinate medicine donations and logistics across more than 45 countries.
- Train and mentor national programme staff to lead elimination efforts.
- Develop and share data tools and dashboards that inform national decision-making.
- Convene stakeholders through regional platforms such as the ESPEN Steering Committee and Regional Programme Advisory Group (RPAG) to align technical, operational, and financial support.
Join the Movement
Partnership is at the heart of everything we do. Whether you are a government institution, donor, implementing partner, academic organization, or private sector actor, there are many ways to collaborate with ESPEN:
- Support technical and operational activities for PC-NTD elimination.
- Co-develop and fund data and innovation initiatives that strengthen surveillance and integration.
- Engage in regional coordination and advocacy to advance the NTD agenda in Africa.
Together, we can unite for a healthier, more equitable future — one free from neglected tropical diseases.
