Arba Minch University/AMU/ in collaboration with the Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) launched a segment of the Nationwide Mycetoma Mapping project in Ethiopia's Tigray Region aiming at tackling the debilitating fungal infection, mycetoma. This event took place at Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital in Mekelle from October 25-26/2024 following the project's launch in Arba Minch. Click here to see more photos.
Prof. Haftu Berhe, Chief Academic and Research Director at Mekelle University’s College of Medicine and Health Sciences, opening the session emphasized the project's significance and the critical need for high-quality data to inform evidence-based decision-making.
Mr. Aregay Gebremedhin, Tigray Region's Disease Prevention and Health Promotion Team Leader, reaffirmed the regional health bureau's dedication to support the data collection efforts essential for the project's success in addressing mycetoma, one of the most neglected tropical diseases, during his keynote address.
The principal investigator, Prof. Wendemagegn Embiale, shared insights into the framework for addressing Skin Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs). Meanwhile, Mr. Alemayehu Bekele, the local project coordinator, presented the “Third National Neglected Tropical Diseases Strategic Plan (2021-2025)”, highlighting the strategic direction for tackling the diseases.
Dr. Gidey Berihe, the site investigator for Tigray, provided an overview of mycetoma's etiopathogenesis, its manifestations, and the ongoing challenges in diagnosis and treatment.
The national project coordinators, Dr. Dereje and Dr. Nick Kisenges, facilitated the training program, which covered the study protocol, data collection tools, and the principles of good clinical practice. This comprehensive training initiative, supported by the Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi), is part of a broader effort to map the burden of mycetoma across four Ethiopian regions: Tigray, Afar, Amhara, and Southern Ethiopia.
A total of 25 health personnel from the Degua Tembien and Hawzen districts were equipped with vital skills to identify, manage, and prevent mycetoma. Looking ahead, similar training sessions are planned for the Afar and Amhara regions, with the aim of informing future policy decisions. This national-level study is poised to provide critical insights that will aid in the development of targeted interventions and future clinical trials. By addressing the significant gaps in understanding mycetoma, Arba Minch University and its collaborators are playing a pivotal role in the ongoing battle against NTDs in Ethiopia.
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