Neglected Tropical Diseases: an urgent challenge for Angola’s health and development
By: Dr. Nzuzi Katondi, WHO Neglected Tropical Diseases Officer in Angola
World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day (NTD), marked every year on January 30, is an opportunity to reflect on a public health problem that continues to affect millions of people around the world and thousands of Angolans, especially in the most vulnerable communities.
NTDs encompass a range of preventable and treatable diseases, many of which can be eliminated or eradicated. Despite global progress, these diseases continue to place a significant burden on health systems and the socioeconomic development of affected countries. In 2024, approximately 1.4 billion people worldwide required interventions against NTDs, a significant reduction of 36% compared to 2010. By early 2026, 58 countries had eliminated at least one NTD, demonstrating that elimination is possible with consistent investment and effective leadership.
However, this progress is under threat....
