A regional workshop from 2–4 December 2025 in Antsirabe, Madagascar strengthens country capacity for integrated control of schistosomiasis and Taenia solium through a One Health approach to advance WHO NTD Roadmap 2030 targets.
The meeting, led by WHO/AFRO–ESPEN, brought together national programme managers, pharmacovigilance officers, and One Health representatives from seven priority countries: Cameroon, Madagascar, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia. These countries face co-endemicity of schistosomiasis and Taenia solium infections and are scaling up mass drug administration (MDA) as part of the WHO NTD Roadmap 2030.
“Tackling co-endemic schistosomiasis and taeniasis/cysticercosis requires moving beyond siloed programmes to practical One Health integration—linking human and animal health actions, strengthening pharmacovigilance, and turning shared risks into opportunities for safer, sustainable disease control,” said Dr Elizabeth Juma, ESPEN Team Lead.
Participants reviewed global and regional progress, shared country experiences, and engaged in practical planning sessions. A field visit to Betafo district showcased integrated interventions in action—combining human MDA with pig vaccination and treatment, community sensitization, and biosecurity measures. This hands-on experience reinforced the feasibility and impact of One Health integration at community level.
The workshop concluded with actionable recommendations:
- Institutionalize integrated delivery of schistosomiasis and taeniasis/cysticercosis interventions.
- Strengthen pharmacovigilance and harmonize reporting systems.
- Enhance community engagement and social mobilization.
- Scale up microplanning and mainstream NTD interventions into health systems.
- Ensure availability of essential medicines for preventive chemotherapy and adverse event management.
WHO and partners committed to sustaining annual One Health training workshops in Madagascar, positioning the country as a regional hub for capacity building and peer learning.
“Madagascar’s leadership in One Health integration offers a model for the region. By embedding these approaches into national systems, we can accelerate progress toward elimination targets,” said Prof Laurent Musango, WHO Representative in Madagascar.
By fostering collaboration across human, animal, and environmental health sectors promise improved coverage, safety, and stronger health systems.
