World Leprosy Day was this weekend commemorated by the United Nations Operation in Côte d'Ivoire and its national and international partners by providing assistance and comfort for those suffering from the disease in Olodio, a village situated 520 km northwest of Abidjan.



Some 15 people suffering from leprosy and their families and friends listened to the message brought by a UN delegation led by Antoine Habonarugira. The aim of the event, he explained, was to help those who are sick to get treatment as soon as possible because leprosy can be cured and those suffering from it are no different to other people. "The United Nations Udreams of a world where each one of us evolve in peace and good health. Our fight is to definitively eradicate leprosy and we support all the efforts of the State in this regard," said M. Habonarugira.



For his part, the departmental director of the health district of Tabou, Dr N'dri Roger, presented an update on the fight to eradicate leprosy in her area. "In 2013, we had 17 people who suffered from the disease and 13 of them were completely cured. This represents 0.8 cases out of 10,000 inhabitants. This signifies that the disease has almost disappeared," said Dr Ndri.

The deputy prefect of Olodio, Adjué Monin, stressed the need to show a spirit of solidarity to those who suffer from the disease. « Today, we should share and show solidarity and compassion to our relatives and friends who are victims of this disease. I strongly urge you to take care of them and to refrain from judging them,"he added.



Medical kits were distributed to the sick during the ceremony which was attended by political, traditional and community leaders, representatives of women's and youth associations and officials of several organisations including the UN High Commission for Refugees, the French Red Cross and UNOCI personnel.