Mozambique
Country Overview
Since 1992, Mozambique has implemented strong economic and development policies that have led to political and social stability, yet it remains among the poorest countries in the world and its health indicators are notably low. Despite progress in managing the health system, the recruitment, training, and deploying of health workers continues to be a significant problem, and much of the population is without health care. Infectious and parasitic diseases are the main causes of illness and death, with malaria and all seven of the most common neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) endemic in the country. Approximately 4 out of every 5 school-age children are infected with soil-transmitted helminths (STHs), and urinary schistosomiasis prevalence reaches 100% in some districts, leaving young girls and women at increased risk of contracting HIV.
Current Effort
A few laboratories throughout the country are equipped to test and treat for schistosomiasis, and small-scale deworming has been carried out by various NGOs, particularly Save the Children. With partial financial support from the Schistosomiasis Control Initiative, schistosomiasis and STH mapping and surveillance has been carried out throughout the country, confirming high levels of endemicity of these diseases.
Several NGOs have also administered small-scale interventions and/or surveillance for other NTDs, including lymphatic filariasis (LF), onchocerciasis, and trachoma; however, no national control program exists for any NTD. Nevertheless, national plans exist and Mozambique’s government is committed to working with international partners to relieve the country’s NTD burden.
Remaining Gap
Very little foreign aid has gone toward NTD control in Mozambique, despite the country’s need for international support to launch its proposed integrated NTD control program. Investing in Mozambique will empower the country to become a more active contributor to the global economy by increasing the capacity of local health systems through training community drug distributors, and by diminishing the impact of these devastating diseases on the health and productivity of the population. Funding from the World Health Organization will leverage new investments, making this one of the best opportunities in Sub-Saharan Africa to improve an entire country’s standing. Approximately $3.7 million per year over five years will enable the treatment of all 14 million at-risk inhabitants. To support NTD control efforts in Mozambique, please click here.
