We can talk about mass drug administration and billions of dollars worth of drugs donated but amongst all these huge figures it’s easy to forget about the human face of the fight against NTDs.

NTDs themselves are of course hugely debilitating to those who live with them – but in bringing together countries, resources and people a new opportunity for empowerment and ownership has emerged. Community drug-distributors have found the programme gives them a greater sense of purpose and has increased their respect within the communities they serve. This provides the vital energy needed to make these interventions viable, truly sustainable and a development best buy.