Cabo Verde Achieves Malaria-Free Status! WHO’s Historic Stamp of Approval Unveils a Remarkable Triumph!
Cabo Verde, an island nation in the Central Atlantic Ocean, has reached a historic milestone in global health as the World Health Organization (WHO) certifies it as malaria-free. Joining the ranks of 43 countries and 1 territory with this certification, Cabo Verde is the third in the WHO African region, following Mauritius and Algeria.
The certification is a testament to the government’s commitment and resilience in eliminating malaria, a disease that remains a significant health challenge, especially in Africa. Cabo Verde’s success is particularly noteworthy given its strategic location and reliance on tourism, accounting for about 25% of its GDP.
Eliminating malaria involved rigorous efforts, with targeted interventions dating back to the 1950s. The country faced severe epidemics until the implementation of focused insecticide spraying. Despite lapses leading to a resurgence, Cabo Verde eliminated malaria twice, with the final peak in the late 1980s. Since 2017, the islands of Santiago and Boa Vista have been malaria-free.
Cabo Verde’s journey saw the inclusion of malaria elimination in its national health policy in 2007, followed by a strategic plan from 2009 to 2013. The country turned an outbreak in 2017 into an opportunity for improvements, ensuring zero indigenous cases for three consecutive years.
The collaboration between the Ministry of Health and various government departments, along with community-based organizations and NGOs, played a crucial role. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, efforts focused on sustaining vector control, strengthening malaria surveillance, and maintaining the commitment to eliminating the disease.
Cabo Verde’s certification not only enhances its global image, attracting more visitors, but also showcases the achievement of a malaria-free status through political will, effective policies, community engagement, and multisectoral collaboration. As the country celebrates, the global community applauds its leaders, healthcare professionals, and citizens for their dedication to creating a healthier future.
