African Partners Unite Against Neglected Tropical Diseases
By Ladi Dapson, Maiduguri
African development organizations and regional media network have united to push forward sustainable agenda against neglected tropical diseases in the continent.
Speak Up Africa, a development organization for healthy and thriving African societies, Sightsavers, Brands on a Mission and REMAPSEN, a media network for the promotion of health and environment, have agreed to co-host a media forum in Abidjan, Ivorian capital later this year to bring over 40 African journalists and experts together to highlight ways of tackling neglected tropical diseases.
“From November 25 to 27, 2025, the 4th Media Forum will take place under the theme: Media Contribution to Positioning the Fight Against Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) in Africa,” Bamba Youssouf, President of REMAPSEN, a media Network for the promotion of health and environment, disclosed in a statement.
He said REMAPSEN counts on its strategic partners; the African development organizations, in the fight against neglected tropical diseases.
Speaking at a virtual press conference to flag off preparations tor the media forum, Health Advocacy Officer at Speak Up Africa, Mr. Papa Djibril Faye, said the media is critical to the fight against neglected tropical diseases.
“The media have a predominant role to play in education, awareness-raising and resource mobilization. Through this forum, we hope that REMAPSEN journalists will be equipped to strengthen media coverage around neglected tropical diseases in Africa,” he disclosed.
Founding President of Brands On a Mission (BOAM), press conference on May 30th, Professor Myriam Sidibé, said BOAM is an agency operating in health and sustainable development.
“The mission of Brands On a Mission is therefore perfectly aligned with REMAPSEN’s objectives,” she explained.
