Updates & events
Latest news
The ESPEN Collect platform has reached a new milestone with the launch of its Mass Drug Administration (MDA) module, expanding its scope from mapping and surveys to real-time monitoring of treatment campaigns. This integrated digital tool enables countries to track medicine distribution, supervision, and coverage more efficiently, strengthening data-driven decision-making in the fight against NTDs.
ESPEN and Sightsavers co-hosted a regional webinar in March 2026 to share lessons learned in lymphatic filariasis (LF) dossier development and strengthen country readiness for validation. The session highlighted the importance of early, continuous documentation and alignment with WHO guidance to support a smooth validation process. Key insights and practical recommendations are now available to guide countries progressing toward elimination of LF as a public health problem.
WHO AFRO convened the inaugural meeting of the Regional Technical Advisory Group on Urogenital Schistosomiasis (TAG-UGS) in February 2026, marking a shift towards integrating UGS within national health systems. The meeting highlighted critical gaps in diagnosis, treatment, and coordination, and emphasized the need to embed UGS services across platforms such as SRHR, HIV, and primary health care. The report outlines a practical, system-based approach to improve visibility, access to care, and progress toward equitable, person-centred health services in the African Region.
Upcoming events
WHO AFRO will convene the second meeting (virtual) of the Regional Technical Advisory Group on Urogenital Schistosomiasis (TAG-UGS) on 29 April 2026 to review and validate key regional tools supporting UGS integration. Bringing together technical experts and WHO teams, the session will refine guidance and align approaches to ensure relevance for country implementation. This meeting marks an important step in advancing coordinated, system-based responses to UGS across the African Region.
ESPEN will convene a regional workshop from 19–21 May 2026 in Brazzaville to strengthen country capacity for the preparation and submission of high-quality PC-NTD elimination dossiers. Bringing together national NTD programme staff, dossier committee members, and WHO experts from countries nearing elimination milestones, the workshop will address common challenges in data quality, completeness, and evidence synthesis. The event aims to reinforce country ownership of the dossier process and support timely, credible submissions in line with WHO requirements and the 2030 NTD Roadmap
These meetings are more than just a congregation of minds; they are a rallying point for action. The challenges of funding and resource allocation, especially in the wake of the pandemic, have brought to the fore the urgency of advocacy, innovative resource mobilization, and the criticality of country ownership.
These gatherings serve as a platform for sharing best practices, technical updates, and fostering cross-sectoral collaborations, crucial for sustaining momentum and adapting to evolving public health landscapes.
A dynamic platform bringing together Member States, partners, and donors every quarter to share progress, innovations, and lessons learned in the fight against NTDs across Africa. These webinars strengthen collaboration, visibility, and data-driven decision-making — fostering a connected community committed to achieving the 2030 NTD Roadmap targets.