Unite for a Leprosy-Free Nation: World Leprosy Day 2025 Celebrated in Narsingdi District
In honor of World Leprosy Day 2025, the district of Narsingdi witnessed a strong demonstration of unity, awareness, and compassion through simultaneous rallies held across all six upazilas. This year’s celebration centered on the national slogan:
Unite. Act. Eliminate Leprosy
The day’s events were designed to raise public awareness, reduce stigma, and reinforce early detection and treatment efforts for leprosy—a disease still affecting many in marginalized communities.
Rally and Public Engagement Activities
Rallies were held in six upazilas of Narsingdi—Belabo, Monohardi, Raipura, Shibpur, Palash, and Narsingdi Sadar—with enthusiastic participation from local residents, students, government officials, healthcare workers, and NGO representatives. Participants held banners and placards while chanting slogans promoting dignity, inclusion, and healthcare for all.
A central discussion meeting followed at the District Civil Surgeon Office, presided over by the District Civil Surgeon, who emphasized the government’s commitment to improving healthcare access and eliminating discrimination faced by people affected by leprosy.
Distinguished Guests and Contributions
The event was honored by the presence of Chief Guest Abu Taher Mohammad Shamsuzzaman, Additional Deputy Commissioner (General), who praised the multi-stakeholder approach and urged consistent community engagement.
Special Guest Md. Abu Kausar Sumon, Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer (UH&FPO), stressed the importance of early diagnosis and community awareness in curbing the spread of leprosy.
Key contributions also came from
- Representatives of BRAC, highlighting community-based rehabilitation and awareness programs
- Eva Beethi, representative of The Leprosy Mission, who discussed national and global strategies
- Jahangir Hossain and Makhsuda Rahman, representatives of local organizations committed to inclusive care and social reintegration
Voices for Change: United We Stand
The event served as a reminder that leprosy is curable and that no one should suffer due to stigma or misinformation. In his address, ADC General Shamsuzzaman stated:
“A leprosy-free Bangladesh is not just a health goal—it is a symbol of how united action can restore dignity, opportunity, and hope.”
Community representatives and individuals affected by leprosy also shared their lived experiences, further strengthening the collective commitment to inclusion and care.
The World Leprosy Day 2025 observance in Narsingdi reflected a shared determination to eliminate leprosy and its associated stigma through education, collaboration, and action. The rallies and discussions marked a significant milestone in local advocacy, emphasizing that the journey to a leprosy-free nation is a shared responsibility