Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi)

The Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) is a non-profit research and development organization established in 2003. Its mission is to develop and deliver safe, effective, and affordable treatments for neglected diseases that primarily affect impoverished and marginalized populations. DNDi focuses on diseases such as sleeping sickness (human African trypanosomiasis), Chagas disease, leishmaniasis, pediatric HIV, hepatitis C, and other neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).

Mission and Approach

DNDi operates on a patient-centered model, emphasizing the development of treatments that are accessible and tailored to the needs of affected communities. The organization employs a collaborative approach, partnering with public and private entities, including governments, academia, pharmaceutical companies, and non-governmental organizations, to facilitate research and development. This model allows DNDi to leverage diverse expertise and resources to advance its mission.

Key Achievements

Since its inception, DNDi has developed several treatments for neglected diseases, including:

• Fexinidazole: The first all-oral treatment for both stages of sleeping sickness.

• Paediatric benznidazole: A child-friendly formulation for Chagas disease.

• Fixed-dose antimalarial combinations: Such as ASAQ and ASMQ, developed in partnership with pharmaceutical companies.

• 4-in-1 antiretroviral therapy: A pediatric formulation for HIV treatment.

These treatments have been developed with a focus on affordability, safety, and suitability for use in resource-limited settings.

Global Presence

DNDi is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and maintains regional offices to support its global operations:

• Geneva, Switzerland: 15 Chemin Camille-Vidart, 1202 Geneva

• Nairobi, Kenya: George Padmore Road, Kilimani

• Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo: Avenue Milambo 4, Commune de la Gombe

• New Delhi, India: 4/2 Siri Institutional Area, PHD House, 3rd Floor

• Tokyo, Japan: 6-12-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, 3F Parkwest Building

• Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Rua São Jose 70, Sala 601

  DNDi Eastern Africa Office – Nairobi

  Address:
  One Padmore Place, 8th Floor
  George Padmore Road, Kilimani
  P.O. Box 21936-00505
  Nairobi, Kenya

  Telephone: +254 20 5003 400

  Website: https://dndi.org

  Key Contacts

  • Prof. Samuel Kariuki – Director, DNDi Eastern Africa

  • Ms. Linet Otieno – Head of Communication
    Email: latieno@dndi.org

  • Mr. Paul Barasa – Media Contact
    Mobile: +254 719 703 195
    Email: pbarasa@dndi.org