By Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Amope Oniroyin
Published on 2024-01-12 12:27:36
Cabo Verde, an archipelago in the Central Atlantic Ocean, has been officially certified as a malaria-free country by the World Health Organization (WHO), marking a significant achievement in global health. The certification makes Cabo Verde the third African nation, after Mauritius and Algeria, to achieve this status.
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus commended the government and people of Cabo Verde for their commitment and resilience, highlighting the importance of strategic public health planning and collaboration. The success of Cabo Verde in eliminating malaria is seen as a beacon of hope in the broader efforts to create a malaria-free world.
The certification not only signifies the interruption of indigenous malaria transmission but also reflects Cabo Verde’s strengthened health system. The infrastructure developed for malaria elimination will now be repurposed to combat other mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever, which is expected to boost the country’s tourism sector.
Cabo Verde’s Prime Minister, Ulisses Correia e Silva, emphasized the positive impact of the certification on the country’s external image, acknowledging the recognition of the challenges overcome in the health system.
Cabo Verde’s journey to malaria elimination faced challenges, but targeted interventions, including insecticide spraying, led to the country eliminating malaria twice before lapses in vector control. Since 2017, the islands of Santiago and Boa Vista, which were the last affected, have been declared malaria-free.
WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, praised Cabo Verde’s achievement as an inspiring example for other nations. The long journey to elimination was fortified by strong political will, effective policies, community engagement, and multisectoral collaboration.
Cabo Verde, known for its diverse landscapes and vibrant culture, has dedicatedly pursued the goal of eliminating malaria, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. The country focused on improving vector control, malaria diagnosis, and surveillance efforts, safeguarding the progress made.
A strategic malaria plan, implemented since 2009, laid the groundwork for success, emphasizing expanded diagnosis, early treatment, and the reporting of all cases. Collaboration between various government departments and community-based organizations played a pivotal role.
As Cabo Verde celebrates this monumental achievement, the global community applauds its leaders, healthcare professionals, and citizens for their unwavering dedication to creating a healthier future for all.
Read the original article on Africa Health IT News
