As a child growing up in the lake region, my life was profoundly impacted by bilharzia, a type of Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD). I am just one among the staggering 1.7 billion people affected by NTDs globally. These diseases trap communities in relentless cycles of illness and poverty—but we have the power to break them.

Neglected Tropical Diseases, as the name suggests, are diseases that don't tend to receive widespread attention. Yet, they ravage communities, often afflicting the most vulnerable among us. We have the capability and resources to eliminate these diseases and all it requires is our collective commitment - awareness, advocacy, and concrete action.

NTDs have garnered the attention of significant health bodies. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported the reduction of affected people by 600 million between 2010 and 2017. But this is not enough. Over 1.7 billion still suffer. With stronger commitment and wider awareness, we can bring about a world free from the devastation of NTDs.

Add your voice. Be a part of this movement. By signing this petition, you are pledging to keep the issue of NTDs in focus, to advocate for greater resources, and to take determined action whenever you can. Let's end the neglect of these tropical diseases and let's end them for good. Sign the petition today.