The cost of neglected diseases on SSA economies

Sub-Saharan Africa is facing a significant economic burden due to neglected tropical diseases that have been plaguing the continent for years. Thoko Elphick Pooley, Director at Uniting NTDS Support Center, sheds light on the devastating impact of these diseases on the population and the economy. With millions of people affected by preventable illnesses, the loss of workforce and human capital is immense, resulting in a ripple effect on families and communities across Africa. The toll of neglected diseases such as malaria and neglected tropical diseases goes beyond just fatalities; they disable, disfigure, and make individuals unable to contribute positively to society. Children, especially, bear the brunt of these diseases, with their growth and development severely affected. This, in turn, hampers the building of human capital, a crucial aspect of economic development in Africa. The long-term effects of these diseases also place immense pressure on African governments and taxpayers, as healthcare costs rise and disabled individuals are unable to contribute their fair share to the economy. So why have these diseases been neglected for so long? The marginalized nature of the populations affected by these diseases, coupled with the competing priorities of governments, has led to a lack of focus on addressing these health challenges. However, with the advent of the sustainable development goals, there is renewed hope for tackling neglected tropical diseases and malaria in the most hard-to-reach areas. The emphasis now is on addressing inequities and leaving no one behind, especially the marginalized populations that have been overlooked for far too long. Despite the challenges, there are success stories to be celebrated. The partnership to fight neglected tropical diseases has been a shining example of collaboration between the private sector and governments. Pharmaceutical companies have stepped up to donate medicines valued at billions of dollars to treat these diseases, showcasing a commitment to eradicating these illnesses. However, ensuring accountability in the distribution of these medicines remains crucial. In some African countries, there have been reports of global fund medicines being diverted to the black market or not reaching the intended recipients. To combat this, strong data systems and community-led distribution channels are being put in place to ensure that the medicines reach those in need. By investing in primary healthcare systems and empowering communities to take charge, accountability can be upheld in the fight against neglected diseases. The road ahead may be challenging, but with continued partnerships, accountability, and a renewed focus on the most vulnerable populations, there is hope for a brighter, healthier future for Sub-Saharan Africa.