Uganda hosts 16th neglected tropical diseases conference
The conference brings together NTD practitioners, government officials, community leaders, researchers, policymakers and other stakeholders from over 50 countries to discuss the latest challenges and solutions in the fight against neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).
Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are a diverse group of conditions caused by a variety of pathogens (including viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungi and toxins) and associated with devastating health, social and economic consequences.
KAMPALA - The 16th Annual Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) NGO Network (NNN) conference has kicked off in Kampala city.
The hybrid (virtual and in-person) event hosted by the health ministry that started Tuesday, September 30, 2025, and is running till October 2, is taking place at the Speke Resort Munyonyo.
The conference brings together NTD practitioners, government officials, community leaders, researchers, policymakers and other stakeholders from over 50 countries to discuss the latest challenges and solutions in the fight against neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).
“This platform provides a unique opportunity for knowledge sharing, and it allows us to explore innovative approaches and strengthen partnerships to accelerate NTD elimination and collaboration,” NTDs conference chairperson Gilbert Baayenda said.
Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are a diverse group of conditions caused by a variety of pathogens (including viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungi and toxins) and associated with devastating health, social and economic consequences.
NTDs are mainly prevalent among impoverished communities in tropical areas, although some have a much larger geographical distribution. It is estimated that NTDs affect over one billion people, while the number of people requiring NTD interventions (both preventive and curative) is 1.495 billion.
Conference participants are expected to engage in sessions covering research, policy frameworks, community-led interventions and strategies to enhance prevention and treatment of NTDs.
The conference also provides a space for presenting recent scientific findings and sharing experiences from countries that have made significant progress in combating these diseases.
With Uganda hosting this prestigious event, the country reinforces its commitment to tackling NTDs and contributing to the global health agenda.
Over the three days, participants will take part in keynote sessions, panel discussions, and workshops covering research, community interventions, and policy strategies.
The 2025 conference programme is now available, highlighting a packed schedule of keynote addresses, panel discussions, and interactive workshops designed to foster actionable solutions for NTD elimination globally.
According to the NNN website, the theme for the 2025 NNN Annual Conference is: Sustainable Innovations for Impact – Transforming the Fight Against NTDs.
"The theme merges sustainability, innovation, and impact, ensuring that technological advancements and new strategies lead to long-term success in eliminating NTDs".
The focus on sustainable programming aligns with the World Health Organisation's (WHO) NTD road map overarching objectives. The content of the 2025 NNN Annual Conference will stand on six subthemes.
• AI and Digital Health in NTD Management – Enhancing efficiency and scalability through data-driven approaches.
• Community-Driven Innovations – Leveraging local knowledge to co-create solutions.
One Health Approaches to NTDs – Integrating human, animal, and environmental health solutions.
• Strengthening Health Systems for NTD Elimination – Embedding NTD programs into national frameworks.
• Climate Change and NTDs – Addressing environmental drivers of disease transmission.
Sustainable Financing and Investment in NTD Programs – Mobilising resources for long-term impact.