Throughout 2024-2025, our focus remained on improving access to quality health services, reducing disability, and supporting lasting improvements in the lives of people affected by leprosy and lymphatic filariasis.
Central to this work was a clear commitment to government-led programming and community ownership, recognising that sustainable progress depends on strong public systems and engaged communities.
The data presented in this annual review reflects a year of programme delivery in partnership with government health authorities, frontline health workers and community leaders.
Across settings, Lepra worked to strengthen existing health systems so that services could reach people living in remote and underserved areas. This collaborative approach reflects our belief that lasting change is most effective when public institutions are supported to lead, and communities are actively involved in shaping and using services.
Under the Health pillar, 2025 activities focused on prevention, early detection and continuity of care. Active case detection, support for completion of multidrug therapy, and health education to strengthen self-care were central across programmes.
In India, NTDRU (Neglected Tropical Disease Resource Unit) projects placed strong emphasis on building the capacity of local healthcare staff and strengthening complication management services, including physiotherapy and protective footwear, delivered through government-linked referral centres.
These efforts were designed to complement national programmes and reinforce routine service delivery, rather than create parallel systems.
In Bangladesh, 2025 marked the completion of Proyash, a 12-year health system strengthening programme implemented in partnership with The Leprosy Mission Bangladesh.
The conclusion of this long-term initiative highlights the impact of sustained investment in government capacity, while also underlining the ongoing need for integrated approaches that link health services with community support.
Inclusion remained a core focus throughout the year. Lepra’s programmes recognise that health outcomes are closely linked to social, economic and rights-based challenges. Initiatives such as UPLIFT and Mind to Heart addressed stigma, social isolation and barriers to participation faced by people affected by NTDs.
Community-based groups played an increasingly important role in 2025, supporting peer networks, shared learning and access to opportunities for economic improvement. The data shows that improved physical health is most meaningful when accompanied by better mental wellbeing, dignity and a sense of ownership.
Innovation continued to support programme delivery by helping teams work more effectively and respond to local needs. Greater use of project data, mapping and operational research informed decision-making and helped target interventions more precisely.
A key highlight was continued progress on the ASPIRE project (delivered in partnership with Canadian global health organisation Effect Hope), an integrated model for screening, treatment and long-term management of five skin-related NTDs, including leprosy. By addressing multiple conditions together, ASPIRE offers a practical and people-centred approach that aligns with WHO recommendations and national priorities.
In 2025, the model was presented at the 2nd Global Skin-NTD Meeting in Geneva, where it was recognised as an example of effective, integrated programming.
Together, the 2025 data shows how Lepra’s work continues to contribute to progress towards a world free from leprosy and lymphatic filariasis, through inclusive approaches, strong partnerships and sustained support to for public health systems.
