Themes References
Table 4b: 4. What can be done differently in leprosy control in Nigeria? 5. Recommendations Themes References 4. Lessons Learned - what can be done differently in leprosy control in Nigeria? “As much as we have our ideas as an organization, our efforts should be complemented by the higher authorities. Need for government commitment and support “We the NGOs are just here to support, the leprosy control programme is government’s. We demand increased commitment from the state government such that the only form of funding available will not be from the NGOs.” Reintegration is now the best practice “It is fundamental to note that the settlements are no longer in existence. It’s now ”best practice” that persons affected are integrated back into the community so that they can live among their family members.” Advocacy and Human rights efforts should be improved. “Promoting and protecting the rights of persons affected with leprosy by public education which can be effected by the stakeholders in the media- PLWL Edo state.” Leprosy has become neglected even among neglected diseases. “I will say it’s a situation of neglect not just because the government decides to neglect it. ”It’s neglected out of the neglected diseases” because it’s still neglected even among other neglected tropical diseases.” 5. Recommendations Empowerment of Persons affected with leprosy ”teach them how to fish, don’t just give them fish, that’s my recommendation”. I solicit for food and other basic needs but it doesn’t solve all the problems. We have to ensure that they don’t become a liability, this will even ease the pressure on the government.” Advocacy against stigmatization “improve advocacy against stigmatization” Need for Governmental and Organisations intervention “Government always collect their details and make promises but they don’t get anything” Government should take the lead in the care after the cure of the persons affected with leprosy.” Provision of basic amenities by the government “Government should put better facilities in place for people with leprosy and make basic amenities accessible to them. This will hasten their healing and improve sanitation and hygiene and improve sanitation and hygiene.”