Sunyani: Skin-Neglected Tropical Diseases (Skin-NTDs), including leprosy, Buruli ulcer, yaws, lymphatic filariasis, onchocerciasis, and scabies, are being tackled in Bono and Upper West Regions through the ENIWEE Project. These diseases, which thrive in areas lacking Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) facilities, disproportionately affect rural and marginalized populations, resulting in lifelong disabilities, stigma, and mental health issues.
According to Ghana News Agency, the ENIWEE Project is spearheaded by the health-centered NGO SMAid and funded by Anesvad Foundation. The project aims to break the cycle of Skin-NTDs by addressing their root causes in disease-prone communities. Running from March 2025 to March 2027, the project employs a holistic approach to reduce disease prevalence, enhance WASH access, promote economic empowerment, and strengthen health systems and advocacy.
Mr. Theophilus Babae, the Country Programme Manager of SMAid, emphasized the importance of building and strengthening biomedical and health systems. This involves community sensitization, training healthcare workers, and distributing Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials. During a dissemination meeting in Sunyani, Mr. Babae explained that improving healthcare services and awareness would alleviate the sufferings of affected individuals.
The project also focuses on social determinants of health, such as WASH improvements, livelihood support, and social protection. It aims to construct and rehabilitate water points, promote hygiene, and provide employable skills training and start-up capital for affected women, enrolling them in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
Effective governance and coordination are critical to the project's success, fostering multi-sectoral partnerships between health, WASH, local government, and other stakeholders. By building capacity in civil society, including media and health workers, the project aims to combat stigma through media campaigns and engage in policy dialogue for sustainable NTD control.
Upon completion, the ENIWEE Project anticipates a measurable reduction in Skin-NTDs prevalence, increased WASH facilities access, and enhanced economic resilience for vulnerable populations. Approximately 150,000 individuals will directly benefit, with an additional 230,000 indirectly benefiting from improved public health infrastructure.
Collaborative partners include the Ghana Health Service, Municipal and District Assemblies, WASH NGOs, University of Energy and Natural Resources, NTD's Research Center, and community leaders. The project aims to eliminate Skin NTDs, improve quality of life, and promote economic empowerment.
Dr. Kenneth Bentum Otabi from the University of Energy and Natural Resources highlighted findings from a baseline survey revealing high Skin-NTDs prevalence and low community awareness. The survey underscores the need for targeted interventions, particularly for women and girls who are disproportionately affected by these diseases and associated stigma.
In conclusion, the ENIWEE Project is a comprehensive approach targeting the root causes of Skin-NTDs and promoting economic empowerment. By prioritizing health systems strengthening, social determinants, governance, and advocacy, the project is expected to significantly reduce the NTD burden in the Bono and Upper West Regions.
