African journalists from over 20 countries have converged on Cotonou, Benin Republic, for the 4th Media Forum on Neglected Tropical Diseases, organized by the African Media Network for the Promotion of Health and Environment, REMAPSEN.
The forum, which also attracted more than 100 virtual participants across the continent, aims to strengthen media engagement in the fight against Neglected Tropical Diseases, commonly known as NTDs.
Speaking at the opening, REMAPSEN President, Mr. Youssouf Bamba, described journalists as key stakeholders in addressing NTDs, noting that the diseases often receive little media attention despite their impact on millions of Africans.
He said the forum seeks to amplify African voices, reshape narratives, and mobilize political and community action toward achieving an NTD-free Africa.
Declaring the forum open, Benin’s Deputy Minister of Health, Assavedo Sibylle, disclosed that Neglected Tropical Diseases have been classified as a public health emergency in the country. She added that Benin is close to being declared free of lymphatic filariasis.
The Deputy Minister stressed the need for African countries to strengthen domestic funding and build innovative partnerships to sustain progress in disease control.
In a goodwill message, the World Health Organization Representative in Benin, Dr. Konan Konami Jean, noted that NTDs are closely linked to poverty and social inequality. He reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to supporting African countries and REMAPSEN in eliminating the diseases.
Also speaking, Speak Up Africa’s Partnership Director, Mrs. Sophietou Diop, described the forum as the first media platform dedicated solely to Neglected Tropical Diseases. She emphasized the importance of advocacy, prevention, and sustained community engagement.
The forum is being organized by REMAPSEN in partnership with Speak Up Africa, with support from the World Health Organization, the Gates Foundation, and other partners.