Cape Verde, an Atlantic archipelago with approximately 500,000 inhabitants, has been declared malaria-free, becoming the third African nation to achieve this significant milestone, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). This accomplishment follows in the footsteps of Mauritius in 1973 and Algeria in 2019.
The WHO requires countries seeking malaria-free certification to demonstrate the interruption of domestic transmission for at least three consecutive years. Cape Verde’s success highlights the power of strategic public health planning, collaboration, and sustained effort, as recognized by WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
While global malaria statistics remain alarming, with an estimated 608,000 deaths and 250 million infections in 2022, Cape Verde’s achievement is seen as a beacon of hope. In 2021, Africa accounted for 95 percent of malaria deaths and 94 percent of contaminations, with children under five representing 80 percent of the deaths.
Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, commended Cape Verde’s accomplishment, emphasizing that with strong political will, effective policies, community engagement, and multi-sectoral collaboration, malaria elimination is an achievable goal. The country’s success is seen as an inspiring example for other nations.
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Malaria, transmitted through bites of infected female mosquitoes, is prevalent in tropical regions and can range from flu-like symptoms to fatal outcomes within 24 hours. While prevention efforts traditionally focused on mosquito nets and insecticides, the WHO recommended two different vaccines since 2021.
Cape Verde’s malaria-free status is expected to have socio-economic benefits, potentially attracting more visitors to a country where tourism contributes approximately 25 percent to GDP. The journey to this achievement began in 2007 when eliminating malaria became a national objective, leading to a strategic plan from 2009 to 2013.
The plan prioritized expanded diagnosis, early and effective treatment, and comprehensive reporting and investigation of all cases. Despite challenges and lapses in the past, Cape Verde remained vigilant, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. The meticulous approach included providing free diagnosis and treatment to international travelers and migrants to curb the influx of imported cases.
Cape Verde’s success story underscores the importance of persistence, comprehensive planning, and collaborative efforts in tackling infectious diseases, offering hope for a future where more African nations can celebrate malaria-free status.
