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October 31, 2024Collaborative Efforts to Combat Schistosomiasis At Joint Meeting.
A pivotal Joint Coordinating Committee (JCC) meeting recently convened to advance the Integrated Research and Development Towards Control and Elimination of Schistosomiasis. This significant gathering brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including health officials, researchers, and international partners, who participated both online and in-person at the Center for Biotechnology Research and Development (CBRD) Boardroom at KEMRI Headquarters.
This meeting followed a KASH webinar the previous day that explored the complexities of schistosomiasis and leishmaniasis, fostering a collaborative spirit that permeated the discussions.
The webinar served as a platform for knowledge exchange, where participants shared insights on recent research developments in schistosomiasis and leishmaniasis. Many echoed the urgent need for integrated approaches that incorporate community participation and awarenessraising efforts. This collaborative tone seamlessly transitioned into the JCC meeting, where project progress and future strategies were the focal points of discussion, particularly focusing on the where the pilot sites that will be located in Homa Bay and Kwale counties.
The JCC meeting began with a strong emphasis on collaboration. Stakeholders expressed their dedication to working together to combat schistosomiasis, a neglected tropical disease with significant public health implications across many regions. The commitment to a unified approach was evident as representatives from various organizations shared their insights and experiences.
During his opening remarks, Ag. Director General, Prof. Elijah Songok, underscored the importance of this collaborative effort. He stated, “The SATREPS Schistosomiasis Project is a partnership to support integrated research and development for the control and elimination of schistosomiasis in Kenya we are committed to improving human health and quality of
life through research, capacity building, innovation, and service delivery.” His remarks resonated with attendees, reinforcing the mission to enhance health outcomes through scientific research and community engagement.
Vice Dean of the Institute of Tropical Medicine at Nagasaki University and Principal Investigator of the project, Prof. Shinjiro Hamano, emphasized the critical role of international partnerships in addressing complex health challenges. He noted, “Our collective efforts must focus on innovative solutions to enhance disease detection, treatment, and community awareness. It is through these partnerships that we can make a significant impact on public health.”
As the meeting progressed, stakeholders reviewed the project’s thematic areas, including behavioural and social sciences research, innovative tool development, and capacity building for drug discovery. Participants recognized the importance of engaging communities through participatory approaches in Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) as essential for effective disease control.
The discussions also spotlighted the development of innovative tools for accurate detection and monitoring of schistosome infections. Collaborations with esteemed institutions aim to enhance diagnostic capabilities, ensuring healthcare providers have access to the necessary tools for effective treatment. The need for capacity development in drug discovery was highlighted, especially in light of reports indicating reduced susceptibility to existing treatments. The project aims to establish a robust system for evaluating new drug candidates, enabling local health facilities to manage schistosomiasis effectively.
Dr. Doris Njomo contributed significantly to the discussions by highlighting the importance of social and behavioural change communication strategies in improving community engagement. She remarked, “To effectively combat schistosomiasis, we must not only focus on medical interventions but also empower communities through education and awareness. Understanding the social dynamics that influence health behaviour is key to fostering sustainable changes.”
Participants also discussed the project’s specific objectives, including the development of communication tools for behavioural change, evaluating intervention effects, and discovering lead compounds to combat both schistosomula larvae and adult worms. These objectives are crucial for strengthening control and elimination efforts, particularly in regions where schistosomiasis poses a substantial public health risk.
In summary, the JCC meeting highlighted the collective commitment to combatting schistosomiasis and the power of collaboration in addressing global health challenges. With a clear action plan and a unified vision, stakeholders are well-positioned to advance research and development efforts that will have lasting impacts on public health.
Prof. Sammy Njenga, a key figure in the project, emphasized the need for ongoing collaboration: “The journey towards controlling and ultimately eliminating schistosomiasis requires the collective effort of all stakeholders involved. Our commitment to sharing resources and knowledge will be the cornerstone of our success.”
As the meeting concluded, attendees left with a sense of optimism and determination, knowing that their collaborative efforts would play a vital role in addressing this pressing health challenge.