The Government of the United Republic of Tanzania has made remarkable progress in eliminating Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), achieving full coverage in the distribution of Mectizan to communities at risk of lymphatic filariasis (commonly known as elephantiasis and hydrocele) and onchocerciasis (river blindness).
This was announced by Tanzania’s Minister for Health, Jenista Mhagama, on May 20, 2025, during a side event at the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) hosted by the World Health Organization (WHO) in Geneva, Switzerland.
“One of our most significant achievements has been the dramatic reduction in onchocerciasis prevalence in 27 districts from a high of 45–95% in 2012 to just 0–3.5% today. This progress has taken place over the past two decades,” Minister Mhagama stated.
She noted that Tanzania stands alongside WHO and other partners in celebrating a global milestone of over 5 billion treatments delivered in the fight against lymphatic filariasis and river blindness symbolizing continued commitment to a world free of NTDs under the theme, "5 Billion Treatments and Counting."
Minister Mhagama also highlighted the wider implications of NTDs, explaining that these diseases significantly hinder social and economic development, particularly in vulnerable communities, thereby deepening the cycle of poverty.
“It is for this reason that, under the leadership of our President, Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, Tanzania has made the elimination of NTDs a national priority. We have integrated this commitment into our national health agenda and allocated resources accordingly,” she emphasized.
She credited Tanzania’s achievements to strong collaboration with partners and called for continued support from donors, pharmaceutical companies, international organizations, and local communities.
“With sustained cooperation, countries can overcome existing challenges and move closer to a world free of neglected tropical diseases,” Minister Mhagama concluded.