Imara Newsletter [Download]

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a major inherited blood disorder and a persistent public health challenge across sub-Saharan Africa. The IMARA Programme, supported by Terumo Blood and Cell Technologies, is demonstrating how an integrated, multi-stakeholder approach can strengthen SCD systems across countries while adapting implementation to national and local contexts.

The challenge is not the absence of effective interventions. SCD can be identified early and managed effectively. The fundamental challenge is fragmentation. Screening may occur without reliable linkage to care. Diagnosed patients may face barriers to medicines. Facilities may lack laboratory and blood transfusion capacity. At the community level, limited awareness delays diagnosis and care-seeking. At system level, insufficient data and coordination make it difficult for governments and partners to plan, finance, and scale effective responses.

IMARA was created to change this paradigm. It is a multi-country initiative designed to elevate SCD as a public health priority and demonstrate how a comprehensive care pathway can be integrated within existing health systems. Initially implemented in Uganda, Kenya, and Côte d’Ivoire, the programme brings together Ministries of Health, healthcare providers, laboratories, blood services, patient organizations, researchers, and implementation partners around a shared vision.

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