WHO and Papua New Guinea Reaffirm Commitment to Ending NTD’s at 76th RCM.

At the 76th Regional Committee Meeting for the Western Pacific, held in Fiji, Papua New Guinea’s Health Minister Hon. Elias Kapavore and WHO Acting Representative Dr Josaia Tiko joined regional leaders to spotlight the country’s progress and challenges in tackling Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs).

Papua New Guinea continues to carry one of the heaviest burdens of NTDs in the Pacific. Diseases such as lymphatic filariasis, yaws, soil-transmitted helminths, leprosy, scabies, and Buruli ulcer affect millions, causing disability, stigma, and deepening poverty and inequity.

Speaking at the session, Dr Tiko emphasized the scale of the challenge: “Lymphatic filariasis is endemic in 13 provinces, putting 6 million people at risk. Yaws is reported at the highest rate globally, with over 100,000 suspected cases annually. These diseases are not just medical issues — they are social and developmental challenges.”

Despite these hurdles, Papua New Guinea has made remarkable progress. In the past year, the country was validated for the elimination of trachoma as a public health problem — a major milestone in the fight against preventable blindness. Mass drug administration (MDA) campaigns have expanded, increasing coverage from 12% to 25% of the population in need, and the Integrated Skin NTD Project has reduced skin NTD cases by 33% in target provinces.

Minister Kapavore highlighted the importance of integrated, community-based approaches: “These achievements reflect strong national leadership, committed communities, and the steadfast partnership of WHO and development partners. They also show that innovative strategies work — even in the face of logistical and health system challenges.”

The country’s efforts are guided by the WHO NTD Roadmap 2021–2030, the Regional Action Framework, and Papua New Guinea’s National Strategic Plan for NTDs 2025–2029. These frameworks promote integration of NTD services into primary health care, cross-border collaboration, and data-driven decision-making.

However, systemic barriers remain. Papua New Guinea’s rugged terrain, limited health workforce, fragile supply chains, and constrained financing continue to complicate service delivery. Minister Kapavore called for sustained investment and stronger partnerships to overcome these challenges and ensure no community is left behind.

Dr Tiko closed the session with a powerful message: “The fight against neglected tropical diseases is not only about tackling pathogens — it is about restoring dignity, protecting opportunity, and enabling every person to live a life free from suffering that should no longer exist in the 21st century.”

With continued collaboration and commitment, Papua New Guinea and its partners are determined to end the burden of NTDs and build a healthier, more equitable future for all.