S. Sudan targets elimination of 19 ‘silent killer’ diseases as it marks World NTD Day

2026-02-01 - 07:49

JUBA, South Sudan (Eye Radio) – South Sudan marked World Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD) Day on Friday with a bold call to end foreign dependency by integrating NTD programs directly into the national primary healthcare system. Under the global theme “Unite, Act, and Eliminate,” health officials revealed a sobering reality: South Sudan currently hosts 19 of the 20 WHO-listed NTDs. While the Ministry of Health reaffirmed its commitment to the 2030 elimination roadmap, the day belonged to survivors who demanded “dignity over speeches,” specifically calling for a dedicated National Leprosy Day and specialized gear like protective shoes to manage their conditions. The Burden of 19 South Sudan remains a primary battleground for NTDs. According to the National Ministry of Health, the country is burdened by 19 out of the 20 NTDs recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO). From the disfiguring effects of Elephantiasis (Lymphatic Filariasis) to the “river blindness” of Onchocerciasis, these “silent killers” haunt three-quarters of the country, often flourishing in areas with limited access to clean water. “This is a day for the world to tell stories of success and failure,” said the Head of the Elimination Committee. “We are moving from just treating symptoms to assessing transmission. We are protecting millions from disfigurement, but the lack of domestic funds and the challenges of our climate remain systemic hurdles.” Voices of Resilience: “It is Not a Curse” The most moving moments of the celebration came not from the podium, but from the front-row seats occupied by survivors. Joseph Wani, a leprosy survivor, stood tall to dismantle the ancient stigma surrounding the disease. “Leprosy is not a curse,” Wani told the hushed room. “It is caused by a bacilli that is curable with modern treatment. But we need detection in the villages. We need protective shoes and blankets because when you have leprosy, you lose feeling. You can be burning in a fire and not know it.” His colleague, John Casmero, shared a double burden. Having survived leprosy through early treatment, he recently lost sight in one eye to Trachoma. “I look like any other man because I got treated early,” Casmero said. “But now I fight Trachoma. We need the government to put resources so the next generation doesn’t have to fight two diseases at once.” A Mother’s Heart and a Ministry’s Promise The spirit of the day shifted from policy to personal when Madam Yar Manyuon of the Ministry of Health addressed the survivors directly. Responding to Mama Anthony Poni, a mother who asked for nothing for herself but only for her children’s education, Madam Manyuon made a spontaneous pledge. “I have heard the voice of a mother,” Manyuon said. “In the spirit of solidarity, I will personally sponsor one of your children. May that child be a symbol of your resilience.” She further committed to elevating World Leprosy Day (celebrated on the last Sunday of January) to a national priority, ensuring it is observed with the dignity it deserves. The Road to 2030 The Carter Center, represented by Nicholas Presley, reaffirmed its long-standing partnership with South Sudan, citing the “massive decline” in Guinea worm cases over the last two decades as proof that victory is possible. However, the “last mile” remains the hardest. Albert Elzayemoni, from the Ministry of Water Resources, reminded the audience that health and water are inseparable. Without a clean rural water supply and hygiene, the cycle of reinfection will continue. As the Budwe Cultural Group took to the floor to close the ceremony with dance, the words of Achol Ayom, Deputy Director of the HIA/AID Commission, lingered: “Disease is a disease—whether it is malaria or leprosy. You are not a curse. South Sudan will be free one day, but only if we extend our hands to our neighbors today.” Leadership from the National Ministry of Health, state Director Generals, and international partners, including The Carter Center and WHO, join survivors of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) for a group photo during the World NTD Day celebrations in Juba on Friday, Jan 30, 2026. Courtesy