What we do

The SCI aims to control or eliminate the seven most prevalent NTDs (soil-transmitted helminths (STH-ascariasis, hookworm infection, trichuriasis), lymphatic filariasis (LF), onchocerciasis, schistosomiasis, and trachoma) from sub-Saharan Africa. 500 million people, two-thirds of the total population of Africa, have two or more NTDs and need regular treatment (map – Distribution of NTDs in Africa) .

In order to realise this aim the SCI assists Ministries of Health in sub-Saharan African countries to develop and expand their existing NTD control programmes into successful National NTD Control Programmes. Furthermore, by presenting an integrated approach to mass drug administration, (simultaneously tackling 7 NTDs), the Ministries of Health have an affordable and realistic means available by which to achieve their goal to reduce the prevalence of these diseases in their populace to a level where they no longer represent a public health burden.

Since 2002 the SCI has been working with governments towards treating and protecting the populations of sub-Saharan African countries from the debilitating and life-threatening consequences of NTDs. By 2007, thanks to funding from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, we have facilitated delivery of approximately 40 million treatments.

Treating NTDs is a ‘best buy’ in public health according to The World Health Organization (WHO). Drugs are either donated or are relatively inexpensive. SCI needs as little as 25 pence/50¢ per person per year, to facilitate delivery of treatments in Africa. If those poor people living on less than £1/$2 per day in rural areas can be reached with this drug package, they will lead a healthier and more productive life. What better safe and effective “pro-poor” intervention could there be?