DNDi Honored with the 5th Noguchi Hideyo Africa Prize for Medical Activities

DNDi Awarded the 5th Noguchi Hideyo Africa Prize

In an impressive recognition of its efforts in medical research and development for neglected diseases, Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) has been awarded the esteemed 5th Noguchi Hideyo Africa Prize for its outstanding contributions in the medical field. The award was presented by the Japanese government, underscoring the significant impact of DNDi's work in addressing critical health issues that plague many vulnerable communities.

Dr. Luis Pizarro, the representative of DNDi, expressed his deep gratitude for this honor, emphasizing the plight of millions who suffer from neglected diseases caused by fatal infections. He remarked, "To receive the Noguchi Hideyo Africa Prize is a great honor for DNDi. The award shines a light on millions of individuals and fragile communities that live neglected, continuously affected by life-threatening infectious diseases. It is unfortunate that these individuals often remain invisible and unheard in the global dialogue on health and development."

Pizarro also highlighted the timeliness of this recognition, especially in light of the waning multilateral support for global health challenges. He stated, "The recognition and support from the Japanese government for those suffering from neglected diseases provides a timely and reassuring boost. At DNDi, we are committed to following in the illustrious footsteps of Dr. Hideyo Noguchi by conducting clinical trials in Africa and developing better treatments for diseases such as visceral leishmaniasis, mycetoma, African sleeping sickness, cryptococcal meningitis, and river blindness that dramatically affect the continent's communities."

He further emphasized the urgent need for effective, safe, user-friendly, and affordable treatments, stating that patients suffering from neglected diseases have long been waiting for innovative solutions. Since its establishment 22 years ago, DNDi has successfully developed and delivered 13 new treatments, significantly contributing to the control and management of these diseases. The recent development of the world’s first oral treatment for African sleeping sickness, which garnered special commendation, exemplifies the invaluable partnerships DNDi has forged with universities, research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, and funding entities worldwide.

Daisuke Imoto, the Japan office representative and director of business development at DNDi, added, "Research and innovation are critical to overcoming neglected diseases. Therefore, the partnership that brings together knowledge and resources from Japan and Africa under this common banner is of utmost importance. We are grateful for the leadership provided by the Japanese government in raising awareness about neglected tropical diseases and ensuring continued research support so these diseases are not forgotten."

The Noguchi Hideyo Africa Prize and DNDi's Focus Areas

The Noguchi Hideyo Africa Prize, established in 2006 by the Japanese government, honors Dr. Hideyo Noguchi, a Japanese physician who dedicated his life to bacteriological research and tragically died while studying yellow fever in Africa. The award acknowledges organizations and individuals making significant efforts to tackle infectious diseases predominantly affecting African communities through fundamental and clinical research.

DNDi was recognized in the medical activities category, focusing on grassroots healthcare and public health efforts to eradicate diseases and improve public health. The award ceremony is projected to be held in August 2025 during the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9).

Awarded every three years, winners of the Noguchi Prize receive a diploma, a medal, and a monetary reward of 100 million yen.

About DNDi

Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) is a nonprofit research and development organization focused on discovering, developing, and providing safe, effective, and affordable treatments for neglected diseases. DNDi has made significant strides in addressing diseases like African sleeping sickness, leishmaniasis, Chagas disease, river blindness, mycetoma, dengue, pediatric HIV, severe opportunistic infections in HIV patients, cryptococcal meningitis, and hepatitis C. Furthermore, it prioritizes research and development on issues such as children's health, gender equality, gender-sensitive considerations, and diseases influenced by climate change. Since its inception in 2003, DNDi has collaborated with global public and private stakeholders to deliver 13 new treatments, saving millions of lives worldwide. More information is available at www.dndi.org.