19.12.2025

"In the next ten years, I hope many countries in Africa will be free of neglected tropical diseases—including elephantiasis and river blindness. So that it will serve as a motivation for other countries to emulate.” - Prof. Alexander Debrah.

To address the challenges of global health, international cooperation in research and innovation is essential—not only in disease control and treatment but also in prevention and health promotion.

According to estimates by the World Health Organization​​, more than 1.5 billion people are affected by neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), and another two billion are at risk of contracting them. Among these NTDs are lymphatic filariasis and podoconiosis. Caused by worms, these diseases often lead to permanent physical disfigurement and immense suffering if left untreated. Professor Alexander Debrah’s goal is to protect people from these infections and to provide effective treatment for those who are already affected.

In recognition of his achievements, the scientist received the Dr. Pascoal Mocumbi Prize this year, awarded by the European-African initiative European and Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership (EDCTP) that is also supported by 🇩🇪 Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung​​ (BMFTR). The prize is endowed with 50,000 euros.

The 🇩🇪 BMFTR supports Professor Debrah’s research through the Research Networks for Health Innovations in Sub-Saharan Africa (RHISSA) programme.

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