In Memoriam: Kamran Rafiq, A Beacon of Hope in the Fight Against Neglected Tropical Diseases
It is with profound sorrow that Asian Dengue Voice & Action (ADVA) announces the passing of a true champion in the global battle against Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), Mr. Kamran Rafiq. He was a remarkable individual whose dedication and tireless efforts have left an indelible mark on the world, transforming countless lives for the better. Kamran Rafiq, the co-founder of the International Society for Neglected Tropical Diseases (ISNTD), departed this world on June 28, 2023.
From an early age, Kamran exhibited an unwavering passion for alleviating human suffering. This innate compassion led him on a lifelong journey to address the plight of those afflicted by NTDs in Asia and beyond. His commitment to this cause was rooted in empathy and an unshakeable belief in the possibility of a brighter, healthier future for the most vulnerable among us.
As one of the founding members of the ISNTD, Kamran played an instrumental role in shaping the organization into a global force for change. His visionary leadership, paired with his unparalleled dedication, laid the foundation for groundbreaking research, advocacy, and community engagement initiatives that have saved countless lives.
Under Kamran’s guidance, the ISNTD pioneered numerous programs and campaigns that raised awareness about NTDs, bolstered research efforts, and mobilized resources to provide much-needed treatment and prevention. His ability to unite diverse stakeholders, from scientists to policymakers and grassroots activists, was a testament to his exceptional leadership skills.
ADVA fondly remembers Kamran for his unwavering support and partnership in the fight against dengue fever, a devastating NTD that has plagued our region for decades. It was under his stewardship that the ISNTD joined forces with ADVA to start a worldwide dengue awareness campaign, which included calling on the UN and WHO to designate a World Dengue Day.
Within a few short years, the movement had gained enough momentum and a rapidly growing global consensus, to garner over 26,500 signatures, endorsed by a growing and global collective of patients, policy makers, researchers, professionals and advocates from over 110 countries, who share the clear goal of reducing the burden of dengue around the world. This culminated in the first ever ‘ISNTD-ADVA World Dengue Day Forum – Cross Sector Synergies’ held online from 13 to 15 June 2021.
In addition, ISNTD also convened an international and multi-sectoral Dengue Advisory Group, comprising partners from Ministries of Health, research and academia, NGOs and civic society, to guide this campaign.
His vision and collaborative spirit were instrumental in launching innovative projects that aimed to reduce dengue’s impact on Asian communities.
Kamran’s legacy is not only the ISNTD but also the countless individuals and communities whose lives have been forever transformed through his work. He leaves behind a world where hope shines a little brighter, where diseases that were once “neglected” are now actively pursued and treated, and where the dream of a healthier, more equitable world is within reach.
Although Kamran Rafiq has left us, his spirit and dedication will continue to inspire us all. As we mourn his passing, let us remember the words of Mahatma Gandhi: “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Kamran’s life was a living testament to this philosophy, and his legacy will forever remind us of the profound impact that one person’s dedication can have on the world.
Our hearts go out to Kamran’s family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. His memory will live on in the work we continue to do, and his legacy will forever be a source of inspiration as we strive to fulfill his vision of a world free from the burden of Neglected Tropical Diseases.
In loving memory,
Asian Dengue Voice & Action (ADVA)
