PNG Launches National NTDs Strategy and Celebrates Trachoma Elimination Milestone

On June 10, 2025, a national conference organized by the Papua New Guinea (PNG) National Department of Health was held in Port Moresby, where several key policies and strategies were officially launched, including the “National Strategic Plan (NSP) for Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs): Priority Diseases for Elimination (2025–2029)”.

PNG had not ever developed a national strategy dedicated specifically to NTDs. This new strategic plan marks a significant milestone, setting out a clear path towards the control of preventable diseases that have long burdened the country’s most vulnerable populations. It emphasizes the importance of building a better health system, stronger national ownership, and advancing inclusive partnerships. Above all, it is a call to action to ensure a healthier and more equitable future for all so that no one is left behind. The ongoing LF Elimination Project also contributed technical support to the development of this plan.

The strategy targets the following 10 priority NTDs:
1. Lymphatic Filariasis (LF)
2. Yaws
3. Soil-Transmitted Helminthiases (STH)
4. Scabies
5. Trachoma
6. Leprosy
7. Buruli Ulcer
8. Rabies
9. Dengue
10. Snakebite Envenoming

On this remarkable occasion, it was officially announced that Trachoma has been validated by the World Health Organization (WHO) as eliminated as a public health problem in PNG. Trachoma is a bacterial eye infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis that can lead to blindness if untreated. To mark this significant achievement, letters of appreciation were presented by the acting Secretary for Health Department, Mr Ken Wai, to key donor countries and partner organizations who contributed to the elimination efforts. PNG is now the second country in the Pacific region, after Vanuatu in 2022, to reach this important milestone. The announcement was also recognized at this year’s World Health Assembly (WHA) and widely reported in national media.

As part of its contribution to trachoma control, the LF Elimination Project supported the use of azithromycin, an antibiotic effective against both trachoma and yaws, during LF mass drug administration (MDA) campaigns in West New Britain Province (WNBP), helping to prevent new infections. The project also collaborated on the design of WHO banners and posters used during the official ceremony.

• 19 May 2025 WHO News Release