REMAPSEN, partners gear up for 2025 African Media Forum on neglected tropical diseases in Abidjan

The African Media Network for Health and Environment Promotion (REMAPSEN) is preparing for the 4th African Media Forum on Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs). This event will take place from November 25 to 27, 2025, in Abidjan.

REMAPSEN announced this during a press conference in Abidjan over the weekend. The forum will gather over 70 journalists from 35 African countries. These include Francophone, Anglophone, Lusophone, Hispanophone, and Arabophone regions.

The theme is “Media Contribution to Positioning the Fight Against Neglected Tropical Diseases in Africa.” The forum aims to equip journalists with knowledge and tools about NTDs. These diseases affect millions but receive limited media attention.

Mr. Bamba Youssouf, Chairman of REMAPSEN’s Board of Directors, stated that organizing this forum helps bring NTDs into focus. He emphasized the need for better media coverage across Africa.

Mr. Coulibaly Zié Oumar, Executive Director of REMAPSEN, said the initiative aims to "break the media silence" around these diseases. It also seeks to empower journalists for advocacy and public engagement.

The press launch received strong support from Côte d’Ivoire’s national NTD program leaders. Dr. Djè Ngoran Norbert and Dr. Dizoé highlighted the media's crucial role in community awareness and policy influence.

They welcomed NTDs as the central theme of the upcoming forum and pledged their commitment to its success.

REMAPSEN's efforts are supported by partners like Speak Up Africa and Sightsavers. Both organizations reaffirmed their support for the 2025 edition during the press event.

Another highlight will be the 4th REMAPSEN Awards celebrating excellence in African journalism on health issues. The awards include Michel Sidibé Prizes named after an African Union envoy.

Line Renée Batongué from CRTV Cameroon explained that these prizes recognize outstanding journalists and spotlight engaged countries. Brands on a Mission supports these awards through public health expert Professor Myriam Sidibé.

This year’s awards ceremony is set for Thursday, November 27, 2025. Mr. Cissé Ibrahima Bacongo will preside over it as Minister-Governor of Abidjan District.

Mr. Yao Daniel welcomed Mr. Bacongo's involvement as a sign of institutional support.

Closing the event, Mr. Agnéro Alphonse Renaud represented the Ministry of Health and conveyed full support from Health Minister Pierre N’Gou Dimba. He expressed pride in hosting journalists and reaffirmed commitment to the forum’s goals.

As REMAPSEN prepares for this gathering, they emphasize moving neglected tropical diseases into public discourse at Africa’s health agenda.