Official Launch Ceremony of the EMINENCE Project in Yaoundé and Bokito

The official launch of the EMINENCE project took place over two days, 9 and 10 June 2026: a scientific presentation in Yaoundé followed by a field visit to Bokito. The events brought together researchers, health authorities and communities around a shared goal: accelerating the elimination of onchocerciasis in areas where transmission persists.

On 9 June, project partners gathered at the Institut Supérieur de Recherche Scientifique et Médicale (ISM) in Yaoundé to present the project’s objectives and activities. EMINENCE is investigating the potential of moxidectin as an additional tool against onchocerciasis, also known as river blindness. The project will compare different treatment strategies and assess their safety, effectiveness and acceptability to communities. Funded by the European Union through the Global Health EDCTP3 programme, it brings together African and European research institutions.

On 10 June, the launch continued in Bokito, one of the areas where the project is being implemented. The visit connected the previous day’s scientific discussions with realities on the ground. It was marked by the administration of a first dose of moxidectin by a representative of the Minister of Public Health. Local authorities also recognised ISM’s commitment to research on neglected tropical diseases.

The launch marks the beginning of a phase of research carried out in collaboration with the National Onchocerciasis Control Programme, health teams and communities. In areas where transmission continues despite years of treatment, EMINENCE aims to generate evidence to inform future elimination strategies. Community participation and attention to people’s experiences of treatment will be integral to this work.