Kaolack reports 42 new leprosy cases, official calls for stronger prevention efforts
The Kaolack region of Senegal has recorded 42 new cases of leprosy, contributing to approximately 285 cases reported nationwide annually. This development, along with the presence of the disease in children, has raised significant concerns. Souleymane Dia, director of the Promotion and Protection of Vulnerable Groups, emphasized the urgent need to enhance prevention strategies and support for affected communities. He made these remarks during a workshop for the Leprosy-Affected Community Resilience Program PRCAL, highlighting that Kaolack is one of the four most affected regions in Senegal. Stakeholders advocate for early detection and increased social support for individuals impacted by the disease. The PRCAL, with a budget of 7.216 billion CFA francs, covers nine former social reclassification villages in Senegal. Its goal is to foster inclusive development following reforms that ended the previous social reclassification framework, thereby strengthening the role of social workers and local authorities in the inclusion of those affected by leprosy. Additionally, land access remains a challenge in areas like Koutal Malick Ndiaye, where nearly 1,500 people share only nine hectares. Dia has called for the allocation of new land to facilitate the creation of a community farm and income-generating activities, aiming to enhance the autonomy and social integration of affected communities beyond medical care.
