Kikundi Fifth Site Visit

From 2 to 6 February 2026, Kikundi convened its fifth peer-to-peer learning site visit in Lomé, Togo. This was the largest of its kind to date, as it brought together 29 NTD Program Managers, 6 partners, and 4 Kikundi team members on site. Over the course of the visit, they engaged in peer exchange, professional development, and reflection on how to strengthen sustainable, country-led NTD programs across sub-Saharan Africa.

The visit was organized in close collaboration with the Togolese NTD Program and hosted under the leadership of Dr. Piham Gnossike, Togo’s NTD Program Manager and Kikundi co-Chair. The site visit officially opened with remarks from the Secretary General of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Kokou Marin Wotobé ,highlighting Togo’s strong commitment to integrated NTD programming and its leadership in elimination efforts. Participants also learned from Togo’s experience in eliminating multiple NTDs and advancing broader goals such as “Zero Leprosy.”

A major focus of the visit was a two-day workshop on advocacy, domestic resource mobilization, and integration. Through panel discussions, country case studies, and group work; participants explored how to position NTDs within national priorities, engage decision-makers more effectively, and strengthen long-term country ownership. Discussions also emphasized the importance of integrating NTD activities into broader health campaigns and systems to improve sustainability.

The site visit also included a two-day project mid-review session, which created space for members to reflect on Kikundi’s progress and future direction. Participants discussed ways to strengthen engagement on the online platform, improve mentorship and professional development opportunities, and increase Kikundi’s visibility, sustainability, and impact.

Interpretation in English, French, and Portuguese supported inclusive participation throughout the week and reinforced Kikundi’s commitment to multilingual exchange. The Togo site visit once again demonstrated the value of peer-to-peer learning in helping program managers share practical solutions, learn from one another, and build stronger NTD programs across the region.

Kikundi is deeply grateful to Dr. Piham Gnossike, the Togolese NTD Program, the Ministry of Health in Togo, and all members and partners who contributed to the success of this year’s site visit.

Please reach out to us if you would like to support this mission at kikundi@uw.edu.