Hope for Future Generations (HFFG), a non-government organisation, has expressed the need for support to sustain the efforts to end Skin Neglected Tropical Diseases (Skin-NTDs).

“This is to ensure that the implementation of the 'Strengthening Community System to scale-up Community-led response interventions to end Neglected Tropical Diseases (Skin-NTDs)' project in parts of the Eastern Region achieved desirable results.

The project is being implemented by HFFG in partnership with Rural Watch, with technical support from the Ghana Health Service, and funding by ANESVAD in seven districts in the Eastern Region.

Josephine Sackey, a Board Member of HFFG, was speaking at a bi-annual project update and dialogue meeting in Koforidua with stakeholders, including the Regional Project Management Committee.

Phase two of the project, which commenced this year, is being implemented in seven NTD endemic districts in the region, including Birim South, Birim North, Akyemansa, Denkyembour, Kwaebibirim, Lower Manya Krobo, and Okere.

While highlighting the project’s sensitization and advocacy efforts, which aimed to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and mobilize community support for affected persons, she called for a strengthened partnership with the Ghana Health Service.

Ms. Carmen Narh, the Project Coordinator, highlighted the inroads made during the first phase, mentioning training of selected community members as lay counsellors to provide psychological support as well as help identify cases at the community level.

Most of the Skin-NTD cases were identified and linked to treatment as well as provided economic support in the implementing districts, signaling the importance of the project and the need to scale up the intervention.

Dr. Damien Punguyire, the Eastern Regional Health Director, assured the HFFG of the Directorate’s commitment to support, sustain, and achieve the desired results of the project.

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