Neftaly: Building an Enabling Environment for Sustainable Harm Reduction Investments
A Strategic Call for Public and Donor Support in Harm Reduction
In many regions across Africa and globally, the impact of drug use on public health, particularly HIV, hepatitis C, and overdose, remains a growing concern. Yet, harm reduction—proven, evidence-based interventions that reduce the negative consequences of drug use—remains underfunded and politically under-prioritized.
Neftaly is committed to changing that. We are working to build an enabling environment where sufficient, strategic, and sustainable investments in harm reduction become the norm—not the exception.
Our Vision
To ensure that harm reduction is recognized, funded, and implemented as an essential component of public health systems—backed by strong political will, informed policies, and committed public and donor investments.
Strategic Objectives
1. Policy Advocacy and Government Engagement
We engage with national governments, policymakers, and regional bodies to promote enabling laws and policies that support harm reduction. Our advocacy is rooted in human rights, public health evidence, and cost-effectiveness.
2. Donor Coordination and Strategic Resource Mobilization
Neftaly works closely with international donors, development agencies, and philanthropic organizations to prioritize harm reduction in funding portfolios. We support strategic planning to align donor investments with community needs and national strategies.
3. Capacity Building and Technical Assistance
We strengthen the capacity of civil society, government agencies, and service providers to design, implement, and monitor harm reduction programs. This includes training, knowledge sharing, and facilitating South-South cooperation.
4. Community-Led Accountability
We elevate the voices of people who use drugs and key populations in harm reduction dialogue. Community-led monitoring, research, and advocacy are central to our approach, ensuring that investments are responsive and rights-based.
5. Sustainable Financing Solutions
Neftaly supports countries in exploring innovative financing mechanisms, integrating harm reduction into Universal Health Coverage (UHC) schemes, and leveraging domestic budgets for long-term sustainability.
Why Harm Reduction Matters
- It saves lives by preventing overdose and transmission of blood-borne diseases.
- It is cost-effective, reducing long-term healthcare and criminal justice costs.
- It respects human rights, promoting dignity, safety, and inclusion.
- It works — from needle and syringe programs (NSP) to opioid substitution therapy (OST), the evidence is clear.
Our Approach in Action
- Facilitated policy dialogues in [Region/Country] to include HR in national strategic health plans.
- Supported national budgeting workshops to integrate harm reduction in domestic HIV responses.
- Mobilized donor support through technical briefs, donor roundtables, and high-level forums.
- Partnered with communities to document gaps in HR funding and advocate for equitable investment.