Gap Assessment Tool (GAT)

The World Health Organization’s (WHO) road map for neglected tropical diseases 2021−2030 sets ambitious targets to eliminate or control NTDs as part of the global drive toward the Sustainable Development Goals. Achieving these targets not only requires a regular examination of quantitative indicators; it demands acquiring a good understanding of the underlying challenges that affect progress.

To support this, the Gap Assessment Tool (GAT) was developed as a dynamic framework for monitoring and evaluation. The GAT’s uniqueness consists of its qualitative approach, which combines the experiential insights from multiple stakeholders -researchers, programme managers, and WHO officials- who collectively identify why progress may stall and what actions are needed to get back on track

Why it matters 

Reducing the NTD burden strengthens universal health coverage and primary health care systems. By taking stock now, the GAT helps countries and partners pinpoint gaps, accelerate programmatic action, and foster cross-sector collaboration. These are critical steps toward meeting WHO’s 2030 goals. 

What is the GAT? 

The GAT adds strategic value to monitoring efforts by: 

• Tracking global-level inputs and processes essential for accelerating progress 

• Highlighting gaps and challenges that rapidly affect outcomes 

• Identifying effective and cost-efficient actions at both disease and systemic levels 

• Strengthening cross-cutting dialogue across all NTDs 

• Fostering country ownership and inclusive stakeholder engagement so that momentum is not lost in our efforts to eliminate NTDs. 

Our role and impact 

Unlimit Health leads the operational implementation of the GAT. This includes organising and facilitating consultations with experts and contributing scientific oversight and expertise in translating findings into actionable strategies. The results will inform global level policy discussions.

Looking ahead 

The first stage of the GAT was conducted between 2023 and 2024, in which 4 of the 11 dimensions of the NTDs road map were updated.  

Throughout 2026, in coordination with WHO, Unlimit Health will update the road map for all NTDs through a series of stakeholder consultations.  

By combining qualitative insights with existing quantitative indicators, the GAT aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the progress achieved to date, identify emerging challenges, and recommend strategic measures to ensure progress. This methodology not only supports WHO reporting but also helps countries take ownership and move closer to achieving the 2030 targets.