Cabo Verde’s certification as a malaria-free country by the World Health Organization (WHO) is a significant achievement in global health.
- Certification: Cabo Verde has been certified by WHO as a malaria-free country, making it the third country in the WHO African region to achieve this status. The certification is a recognition of the country’s success in interrupting indigenous malaria transmission for at least three consecutive years.
- Malaria in Africa: The African region bears the highest burden of malaria globally, accounting for approximately 95% of malaria cases and 96% of related deaths in 2021. Cabo Verde’s achievement stands out in the context of the region’s malaria challenges.
- Positive Developments: The certification is expected to drive positive developments for Cabo Verde. The systems and structures developed for malaria elimination will contribute to fighting other mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue fever. The country’s tourism sector may benefit, as travelers from non-malaria endemic regions can visit without fear of local malaria infections.
- Impact on Health System: Efforts towards malaria elimination have strengthened Cabo Verde’s health system. The certification reflects the country’s commitment and resilience in public health planning and collaboration.
- Technological and Collaborative Efforts: Cabo Verde’s journey involved targeted interventions, including insecticide spraying. The use of technology and collaboration between various government departments, community-based organizations, and NGOs played a crucial role in the success.
- History of Malaria Challenges: Cabo Verde faced significant malaria challenges in the past, with all islands affected before the 1950s. Targeted interventions, lapses in vector control, and subsequent resurgence were part of the country’s malaria history. The recent achievement marks the culmination of a long process.
- Strategic Planning: Cabo Verde included malaria elimination in its national health policy in 2007, and a strategic plan from 2009 to 2013 laid the groundwork for success. The country turned an outbreak into an opportunity in 2017, identifying problems and making improvements.
- Community Engagement: Community engagement, free diagnosis and treatment for international travelers and migrants, and an inter-ministerial commission for vector control chaired by the Prime Minister were integral to Cabo Verde’s success.
- Global Commendation: The global community commends Cabo Verde’s leaders, healthcare professionals, and citizens for their dedication to eliminating malaria. The achievement serves as an inspiring example for other nations.
Cabo Verde’s success in eliminating malaria reflects the power of strategic public health planning, collaboration, and sustained efforts. The certification contributes to the global fight against malaria and offers hope for a malaria-free world.
