From October 23 to November 2, a total of 32 reconstructive surgeries were carried out with no complications by highly trained Nigerian, American and Japanese surgeons, anesthesiologist and nurses.

Four times a year, a team of surgeons, anaesthesiologists and nurses travel to Sokoto noma hospital, northwest Nigeria, to perform life-changing reconstructive surgery for noma survivors.

Noma is a neglected disease which affects those living in poverty. It is infectious but non-contagious, beginning as an inflammation of the gums. The infection destroys the bone and tissue very quickly, affecting the jaw, lips, cheeks, nose or eyes, depending on where the infection started. Up to 90% of people die of noma in the first two weeks if they don’t receive treatment in time.

In 2022, the Federal Republic of Nigeria, with the support of 32 other member states as co-sponsors, led the bid for the WHO to include noma on the Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD) list. The decision has not yet been taken, but including noma on the list of NTDs is a crucial step, as it will generate further awareness and resources towards research and programming for the control and elimination of noma.