Accompanying and reintegrating: the essential work of a focal point
Côte d'Ivoire
Côte d'Ivoire“Our work does not end with treatment. We also support people in regaining their place in the community.”
Konan Amenan Juliette, focal point for Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) in Aboisso, Côte d’Ivoire, is a key player in the local response to these diseases. Her work connects the health system with communities, ensuring that care reaches those who need it most.
During our visit to the region, Juliette shared how her work begins in the field, travelling to hard-to-reach villages and identifying possible cases of diseases such as Buruli ulcer and lymphatic filariasis. Through awareness-raising activities and home visits, she detects symptoms, activates the referral system and ensures that each patient receives an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
“Communities know their reality better than anyone else. Our role is to accompany them with respect and commitment.”
But her commitment goes beyond the clinical setting. Juliette insists on the importance of social reintegration: “Many patients, especially in advanced stages, don’t just suffer physically. They also carry the stigma. They need emotional support to feel part of their community again.”
The situation of women is particularly worrying, as they face a double barrier: the impact of the disease and social discrimination. Juliette therefore advocates gender-sensitive approaches that recognise these inequalities and work to overcome them.
“Women don’t just need treatment. They need to be listened to and respected throughout the process.”
Despite challenges such as reduced international funding and the withdrawal of support from USAID, which has limited access to medicines and logistical resources, the Aboisso team is pressing ahead. “We need more resources, more mobility, more training. But we are not going to give up,” she affirms.
As Juliette says “The commitment of the local team is what keeps the fight against STDs alive.”
Juliette is grateful for the support received from Fundación Anesvad and RECFAM, and reaffirms her commitment: “We will continue working to ensure that NTDs are no longer a silent burden in our region.”
