‘Because people here are ignorant’: The failure of a community intervention to prevent mycetoma in Sudan

Background: This study is based on fieldwork conducted amongst a community in Sudan where the neglected tropical disease (NTD), mycetoma, endemic. In 2018 government officials attempted an unsuccessful intervention and we examine what caused this to fail. was collaborative project building animal enclosures, designed specifically counteract some principal causes of i.e., scratches cuts common transmission. It carefully researched, privately funded, government-endorsed project, which almost unequivocally rejected by community. Methods: Data collection took place July 2018. Eight interviews two focus group discussions (FGDs) were with village residents. One FGD charge implementation enforcement project; three key-informant from State Ministry Health leaders conducted, including those responsible for allocation new enclosures. The data analysed using framework analysis. Results: residents explained that they didn’t use enclosures reasons: (1) it interferes relationship have their livestock, (2) function design are not practical, (3) continually feel let down officials. representatives identified reasons failed: ignorance people village, poor enforcement. Conclusions: shows isn’t viable reduce burden without considering ways life, values, priorities. We revealed villagers contrasting views failure original necessity project. Future behaviour-change interventions need show respect different life beginning open facilitation communication between divergent perspectives.