USAID halts funding for neglected tropical disease programs

A webinar is scheduled to discuss the effects of a USAID stop work order on neglected tropical disease (NTD) programs. This follows concerns about the funding suspension impacting critical health initiatives. The event will feature several experts in the field. Dr. Maria Rebollo from the WHO will open with insights on the effects of these changes on affected individuals. Dr. Pauline Mwinzi will also provide perspectives related to NTDs in Africa. Participants can expect input from Lisa Rotondo, who will discuss how the funding halt is influencing medicine donations. Dr. Johannes Waltz will address how these changes affect the Schistosomiasis Elimination Program at Merck. The webinar will also include conversations about the importance of national action plans. Dr. Jonathan King from WHO will lead discussions on identifying local opportunities to continue delivering NTD medicines. The event aims to explore barriers and potential solutions in light of reduced external funding. It seeks to create a dialogue between the African and American people about responding to the challenges posed by this funding change. The session will be conducted in both English and French.