From research to action on neglected diseases
27 de August de 2026
- Africa Country
- 100.000 € Investment
- 2026-32 Length
The challenge
Each year, research generates new knowledge about leprosy and other neglected tropical diseases that affect the skin.
However, there is still a gap between the generation of scientific evidence and the application of this in practice through public policies, national health programmes, or interventions targeting affected communities.
Bridging this gap is essential to ensure that knowledge generated through research reaches decision-makers and helps improve prevention, diagnosis, treatment and the inclusion of people affected by these diseases.
The solution
Together with the Leprosy Research Initiative, the project promotes a long-term process to systematically incorporate knowledge transfer into research projects funded by the network.
The initiative involves developing tools and methods to facilitate connections between research, public policy and healthcare practice. It also promotes the participation of experts, research institutions, national health programmes and affected communities, with the aim of ensuring that the knowledge generated responds to real needs and has greater potential to influence policy and practice.
In addition, the project fosters opportunities for learning, evidence generation, knowledge exchange and the communication of findings to increase the social impact of research on leprosy and other neglected tropical diseases that affect the skin.
Impact
The initiative contributes to strengthening the connection between research and decision-making in the field of neglected tropical diseases.
Through this work, the findings of funded research projects have more tools that enable them to inform health policies, strategies and programmes. At the same time, it supports research that is more closely aligned with the priorities of affected countries and the needs of the people and communities living with these diseases.
Related projects
See other projects where we combat Neglected Tropical Diseases
A clinical trial to reduce the treatment time for the Buruli ulcer by half
After decades combatting the Buruli ulcer, which affects thousands of people in over 33 countries, we are still unaware of its exact mode of transmission. We know it is related to environments with stagnant and unsafe water.
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Strengthening the African network of laboratories for Buruli ulcer research
There are currently no unified protocols for detecting Buruli ulcer. Although the WHO sets guidelines for the control of NTDs, many laboratories in Africa do not have standardised protocols for sample collection and subsequent screening and diagnosis of these diseases.
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Simultaneous diagnosis of five skin-related neglected tropical diseases (skin NTDs)
Through this initiative, we are contributing to strengthening public health systems, from small aid stations in the remotest villages to health centres in reference-point towns.
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A New Early Detection System for Buruli Ulcer
This will increase early detection, reducing the number of severe cases of the disease, and in turn will lower expenses for patients and their families as there will be fewer severe cases requiring intensive care.
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Better Mental Health for People with NTDs in Nigeria as a Result of Integrated Care
This initiative will support the Nigerian government and other civil society organisations to develop and pilot-test a comprehensive intervention to integrate mental health and NTDs.
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An Initiative to Find Innovative Interventions for the Comprehensive Treatment of NTDs
These lessons learnt in Liberia can also be applied to other settings in the region, thereby contributing to a regional exchange of scientific knowledge. Finally, the findings could also be adopted into public health policies in Liberia.
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Support for Leprosy Research Teams Via the Leprosy Research Initiative (LRI)
These lessons learnt in Liberia can also be applied to other settings in the region, thereby contributing to a regional exchange of scientific knowledge. Finally, the findings could also be adopted into public health policies in Liberia.
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Creating Scientific Research Opportunities on NTDs for Young Professionals from Countries Where these Diseases Are Endemic
Encouraging young researchers in countries where skin NTDs are endemic will contribute to the development of a new generation of scientists who will be better able to understand and manage the challenges of these diseases.
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Reducing Stigma and Disabilities
Via this research project we seek to guarantee the Right to Health of people with disabilities, with a special focus on those with NTDs in Côte d’Ivoire and Benin.
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A New Clinical Study to Improve the Treatment of Leprosy and Prevent its Harmful Side Effects
Via this study, we will enhance capacity-building, strengthen active integrated case detection, as well as enable early detection and accurate diagnoses.
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Promoting global research to eradicate leprosy
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