More than 5.4 million people to receive NTD treatment through a DRC-led programme

The Reaching the Last Mile Fund (RLMF) supports national efforts to accelerate the elimination of onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis

More than 31 million people in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) are at risk of onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis (LF), two preventable and treatable neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).

A new USD 500,000 grant, made available by the Reaching the Last Mile Fund, will support the DRC Ministry of Health and the national NTD programme in advancing elimination efforts in Mongala and Tshuapa provinces. CBM will work alongside the national programme to support mass drug administration for more than 5.4 million people and provide care for people living with the long-term consequences of LF.

The project will also strengthen the capacity of national and provincial health authorities to plan and deliver NTD services, while improving the availability and quality of epidemiological data. Guided by nationally defined priorities, the Ministry of Health, provincial health authorities, CBM, and other NTD partners will collaborate to accelerate progress towards elimination in the DRC.

Onchocerciasis, commonly known as river blindness, can cause visual impairment and blindness. LF can cause lymphoedema and other long-term health complications. Preventive treatment helps reduce transmission, while appropriate care can help manage the long-term effects of these diseases.

Supporting nationally defined elimination priorities

The project will run from September 2026 to June 2027. Its activities support the country’s national NTD strategy and contribute to global efforts to accelerate the elimination of onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis. The Ministry of Health and national NTD programme will guide implementation. The programme will build on national health systems and collaboration with local health workers and communities in Mongala and Tshuapa.

More than one billion people worldwide are affected by NTDs. These diseases have serious health, social, and economic consequences, including stigma, exclusion, and lost income. Access to treatment, diagnostics, disease mapping, and surveillance supports national elimination programmes.

Building on global elimination goals

The project forms part of broader efforts supported through the Reaching the Last Mile Fund (RLMF), a global coalition of countries, donors and partners working to accelerate the elimination of two neglected tropical diseases—onchocerciasis, or river blindness, and lymphatic filariasis—from Africa and Yemen.

Through this new collaboration, CBM will contribute its experience in NTD programming and long-standing work with governments, communities and health partners to support nationally led elimination efforts in the DRC. This includes strengthening health systems and working to improve access to services for persons with disabilities and other underserved groups.

CBM contributes experience in inclusive health programming and long-standing collaboration with governments, communities, and health partners, including work to improve access for persons with disabilities.

National leadership and sustained collaboration drive progress

Progress towards NTD elimination depends on national leadership, sustained investment, effective health systems, reliable data, and participation from local communities. The project will strengthen these foundations while supporting the DRC’s progress towards eliminating onchocerciasis and LF as public health problems.

Neglected Tropical Diseases