Togo declares all-out war on forgotten diseases, aiming to eradicate them completely by 2030.

Lomé, Togo – The Togolese government has announced an ambitious national strategy aimed at eradicating several neglected tropical diseases by 2030. Described by the Ministry of Health as a development battle as much as a health battle, this initiative aims to improve quality of life and promote sustainable development.

Health authorities emphasized that the plan focuses on diseases that receive little media attention but disproportionately affect the poorest and most vulnerable populations, such as elephantiasis, river blindness, and schistosomiasis. They noted that these diseases represent a long-term health and economic burden on local communities.

The strategy relies on expanding prevention and free treatment campaigns. It also aims to strengthen community awareness programs, train medical personnel, and improve access to health services in rural and remote areas. This will be achieved in collaboration with international organizations and partners in the fields of development and global health.

Ministry of Health officials stressed that eradicating these diseases is not just a health issue; it is a crucial step towards breaking the cycle of poverty and achieving health equity. They affirmed that Togo aspires to present a successful African model for addressing neglected tropical diseases in the coming years. This move comes as part of Togo’s commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. It is accompanied by official optimism that tangible progress can be achieved before 2030, provided international support continues and national efforts are integrated.