Between 2020 and 2022, Refolda lead the GFLA and The END Fund partnership and launch of the NTD Champion Program, a network of champions from across Africa working to end neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and help lift women and families out of poverty. The program was created to help The END Fund break the cycle of neglect and put neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) on African leaders’ radar and engage leaders not traditionally involved in this cause at the Pan-African level and locally.
Champions and influencers were recruited to help increase the understanding among businesses, government agencies, and First Ladies’ Offices of how eliminating and controlling NTDs reduces poverty and advances gender equality. Over the project period, these champions took significant action in support of the cause by:
Writing Op-Eds and LinkedIn articles: “Resilience in the face of crisis: a call for action for Neglected Tropical Diseases” - Business Day Nigeria, This World NTD Day, Celebrate How Close We Are to Elimination – And Unite to Reach the Last Mile,” - LinkedIn
Hosting local and Pan-African events to inform and recruit other leaders
Reaching out and engaging NTD coordinators in their respective countries
Presenting on NTDs at events
Advocating for the inclusion of NTDs in CSR strategies
Participating in World NTD Day and posting regularly on social media
Making introductions to possible financial donors and new champions
Learn more at The END Fund, The New Times, CNBC Africa, Business Day Nigeria