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Abstract
In its new roadmap for neglected tropical diseases, the World Health Organization proposes three important strategic shifts: (i) Stronger accountability which shifting from process to impact indicators; (ii) Intensified cross-cutting approaches; and (iii) Stronger country ownership. In this paper we discuss the implementation of these three strategies in the setting of a high onchocerciasis disease burden in South Sudan.
Background
On January 28, 2021, the World Health Organization (WHO) formally launched its new road map for neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). During the virtual launch the WHO document ‘Ending the neglect to attain the Sustainable Development Goals: a road map for neglected tropical diseases 2021–2030’ [1] was presented. This document aims to strengthen the programmatic response to NTDs. It focuses on how cross-sectoral, integrated interventions, smart investment and community engagement can strengthen and sustain health systems [1]. Three important strategic shifts are proposed: (i) Stronger accountability—shifting from process to impact indicators and accelerating programmatic action, (ii) Intensified cross-cutting approaches, (iii) Stronger country ownership, improved roles of stakeholders, clearer roles and responsibilities to deliver on 2030 targets [1].