The Sickle Cell Foundation Nigeria (SCFN) has called on Nigeria to take a leading role in OneSCD, a new global partnership aimed at transforming sickle cell disease (SCD) care. This appeal was made by Dr. Annette Akinsete, National Director and Chief Executive Officer of SCFN, at the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA81) in New York. Nigeria, with its experience in advocacy, service delivery, and locally developed solutions, is well-positioned to be an early demonstration country for the partnership.
The launch of OneSCD was hosted by the Nigerian Government and led by the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako. The partnership is backed by St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and aims to improve coordination, resource mobilisation, and shared learning in the fight against sickle cell disease. According to Dr. Akinsete, Nigeria brings a wealth of experience, institutions, technical expertise, civil society, lived experience, and solutions developed in its own context to the partnership.
Dr. Akinsete emphasized that affected countries in sub-Saharan Africa should be co-creators of interventions, not just recipients of solutions developed elsewhere. This approach, she believes, is crucial for the success of OneSCD. The Sickle Cell Foundation Nigeria has made significant contributions to the fight against sickle cell disease, supporting over 32,000 Transcranial Doppler screenings, 259,000 haemoglobin investigations, 70,000 medication interventions, 3,500 prenatal diagnoses, and 10,000 genetic counselling sessions.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that 7.74 million people live with sickle cell disease globally, with about 515,000 new births annually. Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for nearly 80 per cent of the global burden of the disease. Dr. Akinsete stressed that where a child is born should not determine whether they survive and thrive with sickle cell disease. The SCFN is advocating for a more equitable distribution of resources and expertise to combat the disease.
OneSCD has the potential to revolutionize the way sickle cell disease is addressed in Nigeria and other affected countries. By leveraging Nigeria's experience and expertise, the partnership can develop and implement effective solutions to reduce the burden of the disease. The Nigerian Government's involvement in hosting the launch of OneSCD demonstrates its commitment to addressing the issue.
The Sickle Cell Foundation Nigeria's efforts to raise awareness about sickle cell disease and advocate for a leading role in OneSCD are crucial steps towards addressing the disease. With the support of organizations like St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the partnership can make a significant impact in the lives of millions of people affected by sickle cell disease.
As the global community comes together to address sickle cell disease, Nigeria's leadership in OneSCD can serve as a model for other countries in the region. By working together and sharing expertise, it is possible to reduce the burden of sickle cell disease and improve the lives of those affected.
Key points
- The Sickle Cell Foundation Nigeria is urging Nigeria to lead OneSCD, a global partnership to transform sickle cell disease care.
- Nigeria has experience in advocacy, service delivery, and locally developed solutions, making it well-positioned to be an early demonstration country for OneSCD.
- Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for nearly 80 per cent of the global burden of sickle cell disease, with 7.74 million people living with the disease globally.
