#Japan #Tokyo #GHIT Fund #WHO #Neglected Tropical Diseases

Partnership Announcement

On December 10, 2024, a significant collaboration was established as the Global Health Innovative Technology (GHIT) Fund and the World Health Organization (WHO) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU). This partnership seeks to enhance access to effective, affordable solutions for neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), a group of diseases that significantly impact the health of vulnerable populations globally.

Key Areas of Collaboration

The MoU outlines four primary areas of collaboration aimed at tackling the challenges posed by NTDs:

1. Research and Development: The partnership will focus on strengthening the development of innovative tools, treatments, and interventions specifically designed for NTDs. This initiative aims to bolster the current arsenal against diseases such as malaria and tuberculosis.

2. Resource Mobilization: Part of the agreement will involve creating an NTD investment case toolkit. This toolkit is crucial for establishing sustainable procurement systems that can help secure funding for ongoing efforts against NTDs.

3. Advocacy and Awareness: Raising the profile of NTDs within both global and local health agendas is essential. The partnership will work on advocacy campaigns that highlight the importance of addressing these diseases as part of broader public health strategies.

4. GHIT’s Participation in WHO Initiatives: The GHIT will engage as observers in various NTD working groups and task forces assembled by the WHO, facilitating active participation in decision-making processes.

Impact and Significance

Dr. Ibrahima Socé Fall, who directs the WHO Global Neglected Tropical Diseases Programme, expressed optimism about this new collaboration. He stated that joining forces with GHIT represents a crucial advancement in the fight against neglected tropical diseases. By accelerating research and development efforts, the partnership aims to establish sustainable frameworks and funding mechanisms necessary for the elimination of these diseases.

Through previous collaborations, GHIT and WHO have already laid the groundwork for developing new products targeting NTDs in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The partnership will continue to align with WHO's roadmap for NTDs covering the years 2021 to 2030 and will additionally support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This roadmap highlights global objectives and milestones for the prevention and eventual eradication of 21 NTDs and related disease groups, with a deadline set for 2030 and beyond.

About GHIT Fund and WHO

The GHIT Fund, an international public-private partnership fund, is committed to enhancing global health. Established in Japan, it collaborates with various pharmaceutical companies, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and the United Nations Development Programme. The fund focuses on the development of innovative drugs, vaccines, and diagnostics for diseases like malaria, tuberculosis, and NTDs.

On the other hand, the WHO, founded in 1948, is regarded as the leading authority on international health within the United Nations system. It aims to improve health globally, ensuring that every individual can attain the highest possible standard of health.

Conclusion

This partnership marks a pivotal moment in addressing neglected tropical diseases by fostering collaboration that bridges resources, knowledge, and strategies. As GHIT and WHO work together, the hope is that significant progress will be made in controlling and eventually eliminating NTDs, thereby improving health outcomes for millions around the world.