Gilead Sciences has renewed its collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) for another five years, strengthening efforts to eliminate visceral leishmaniasis (VL), commonly known as kala-azar, through expanded funding, medicine donations and strategic support aimed at improving diagnosis and treatment access in some of the world’s most vulnerable regions.
The renewed partnership, announced by Gilead Sciences, seeks to accelerate progress toward eliminating the life-threatening parasitic disease, particularly in high-burden countries in East Africa. Visceral leishmaniasis, transmitted through infected sandflies, is considered the second deadliest parasitic disease after malaria. The disease attacks internal organs and can be fatal if left untreated.
As part of the agreement, Gilead will provide more than 400,000 vials of AmBisome® (amphotericin B) liposome for injection and contribute $9.2 million in financial support through 2030. The company said the expanded commitment is intended to improve access to lifesaving diagnostic services and treatment, while supporting national elimination programs in regions carrying the highest burden of disease.
The collaboration will support countries accounting for nearly 74% of the global visceral leishmaniasis burden, including Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Eritrea, India, Kenya, Nepal, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Uganda and Yemen. The program will also broaden assistance to Chad and Djibouti, reflecting a sharper focus on East Africa where disease prevalence remains significant.
Daniel O’Day, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Gilead Sciences, said sustained investment and long-term commitment have made elimination increasingly achievable. He noted that improved access to diagnosis and treatment has already delivered meaningful progress in endemic regions and said the strengthened focus on East Africa is expected to accelerate gains.
WHO officials also emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships in tackling neglected tropical diseases. Dr. Jeremy Farrar, Assistant Director-General for Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Care at WHO, said the collaboration will strengthen health systems, expand access to essential medical tools and foster innovation in countries facing the highest burden of disease.
The renewed agreement builds on nearly two decades of collaboration between Gilead and WHO. Since the launch of the visceral leishmaniasis elimination program in Southeast Asia in 2005, the partnership has contributed to a more than 95% reduction in new VL cases across the region. In 2023, Bangladesh reached a major milestone when WHO validated the elimination of visceral leishmaniasis as a public health problem, underscoring progress made through sustained intervention efforts.