The spread of infectious diseases presents a common threat to all humankind. Mindful that Africa　faces this scourge most acutely, the Government of Japan established the Hideyo Noguchi Africa Prize　in July 2006 in memory of Dr. Hideyo Noguchi (1876-1928) whose belief in medical advancement and　self-sacrificing activities in Africa remain a beacon of inspiration to all. Guided by these ideals and　mindful of the ominous human suffering persisting in Africa, the region facing the most serious health　challenge on the globe, the Prize aims to honour individuals with outstanding achievements in the fields　of medical research and medical services to combat infectious and other diseases in Africa, thus　contributing to the health and welfare of the African people and of all humankind.

The Prize consists of two categories: Medical Research honouring individual(s) and Medical Services honouring individual(s) or organization(s)

The Prize is awarded every five years and the second award will be presented in June 2013. (The first award was presented in 2008.)

The selection process comprises two stages, namely: (a) recommendation of a maximum of three candidates by two sub-Committees, one established under the auspices of the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) and the other established under the auspices of the African Regional Office of the World Health Organization (AFRO), which are responsible for the above-mentioned two categories respectively; and (b) finalization of the candidates(s) by the Hideyo Noguchi Africa Prize Committee to be referred to the Prime Minister for final decision.