Khadijah Aliyu-Nigeria
Former Executive Director of UNAIDS and former Minister of Health of Mali, Dr. Michel Sidibé, has said that the fight against neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) must begin with visibility and public outrage, warning that silence remains one of the strongest drivers of neglect.
Dr. Sidibé made the remark during the Michel Sidibé Awards, held as part of the 4th REMAPSEN Media Forum on Neglected Tropical Diseases, in Cotonou, Benin Republic.
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He noted that millions of people across Africa and other regions continue to suffer from NTDs largely because their stories are rarely told, describing journalism as a powerful force capable of shaping public opinion, influencing policy decisions, reducing stigma, and ultimately saving lives.
“A disease becomes neglected when no one speaks about it. What we bring to light, we can defeat,”
Dr. Sidibé explained that the Michel Sidibé Prize was established to honour journalists who demonstrate courage and responsibility by bringing hidden health crises to the forefront of national and continental conversations.
He commended the African Media Network for the Promotion of health and Environment (REMAPSEN) for its commitment to amplifying the voices of marginalized populations and using journalism as an instrument of social justice.
According to him, eliminating neglected tropical diseases requires more than medical interventions, stressing that sustained media attention and public engagement are essential to mobilize political will and secure public support.
He further described the prize as not a lifetime achievement award but a recognition of ethical and impactful reporting that transforms invisible suffering into a public priority.
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The event also highlighted the role of the media as strategic partners in public health, with Dr. Sidibé urging political leaders across Africa to embrace transparency and work closely with journalists to strengthen health systems.
The REMAPSEN Awards Ceremony formed part of a broader forum aimed at deepening media engagement in the fight against neglected tropical diseases, reinforcing the message that ending NTDs in Africa begins with awareness, advocacy, and collective responsibility.