Unity, creativity and urgency: reflections from the 7th Annual NTD Programme Managers Meeting

Reflections from Unlimit Health Executive Director, Dr Lynsey Blair at the 7th Annual NTD Programme Managers meeting in Malawi.

Thank you very much for giving us the floor for a few minutes to share some closing reflections.

First, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to WHO AFRO, particularly the ESPEN team, and to the African Union for inviting Unlimit Health to participate in what has been an incredibly valuable and timely meeting. We also offer our warm congratulations on the success of these past four days.

As I reflect on the discussions and exchanges we’ve had, it is the call to action delivered by the Honourable Minister of Health in her opening remarks that has resonated most strongly throughout this meeting. She reminded us that if we are to reach the 2030 NTD Roadmap goals, we must act with unity, creativity, and urgency. Those three words have been powerfully reflected in both the agenda and the dialogue we have shared together.

1. Unity and collaboration
Unity is something the NTD community does exceptionally well. When I look around the room, I see ministries of health, WHO, donors, technical partners, pharmaceutical partners, and many others—all united by a common goal. When we work together in support of national programmes, we deliver extraordinary results. Over the last few days, we have heard about impressive progress towards elimination targets, the strength of shared learning through initiatives such as the Kikundi community of practice, and the vital importance of cross-border collaboration in addressing diseases that do not respect national boundaries. Our collective experience, expertise, and perspectives are unquestionably stronger when brought together.

At the same time, our challenge now is to broaden that unity. We need to collaborate beyond the traditional NTD space. The landscape has changed dramatically, and for NTD progress to be sustainable, we must engage with other sectors and actors. We have discussed the intersections between NTDs and climate change, the opportunities this presents for aligned funding and action, and the importance of integration across the health sector, from immunisation campaigns, to routine maternal and child health services, to nutrition platforms.
As was said during the week, this is partly about learning to speak the language of others, positioning NTDs in ways that make their relevance, value, and urgency immediately clear, so that broader collaboration and investment can follow.

2. Creativity and innovation
Creativity and innovation have been equally evident throughout this meeting. We have seen an impressive range of advances. From new diagnostic tools and improved data systems, to strengthened supply chain forecasting and the emerging use of AI. These innovations demonstrate how the NTD community is reimagining how we tackle long-standing challenges and maximise impact and efficiency.
But innovation is not limited to tools and technologies. It also lies in how we work and how we think. Our willingness to do things differently, to challenge assumptions, and to try new approaches. Across member states, we have heard excellent examples of creative advocacy and resource mobilisation. These experiences offer valuable lessons and inspiration for others. As traditional approaches reach their limits, creativity will be essential to overcoming persistent barriers and accelerating progress.

3. Urgency and action
Finally, there is urgency. 2030 is fast approaching, and significant NTD Roadmap targets remain unmet. The breadth and depth of the discussions over the past four days reflect both how much has already been achieved and how much remains to be done. If we are to meet the roadmap goals, we must move decisively from discussion to action.

At Unlimit Health, our strategy is aligned with the pillars of the NTD Roadmap. We are committed to supporting country-led elimination programmes through evidence-based approaches, helping to scale proven interventions, promoting cross-sectoral collaboration, and most importantly, reinforcing country ownership.
We will continue to deliver on this commitment, working alongside partners and stakeholders to harness innovation and pursue inclusive solutions that leave no one behind. The momentum generated during these four days must now translate into intensified action, strengthened partnerships, and renewed resolve as we continue our collective journey toward ending neglected tropical diseases.

Thank you.