For the first time in 50 years, a sub-Saharan African nation has been declared malaria-free. The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially granted Cape Verde this status after the country recorded no local malaria transmission for three consecutive years.
A Major Achievement in Public Health
Malaria remains one of Africa’s deadliest diseases, claiming 580,000 lives on the continent in 2022 alone—accounting for 95% of global malaria deaths. The disease is caused by a parasite spread through mosquito bites. While vaccines have been introduced in some areas, prevention methods such as mosquito control and early disease detection remain the most effective strategies.
How Cape Verde Eliminated Malaria
Cape Verde, a small island nation off the West African coast, has spent years strengthening its healthcare system to fight malaria. The country has focused on:
- Early Detection & Treatment: Surveillance teams quickly identified and treated cases to prevent outbreaks.
- Mosquito Control: Authorities implemented strict measures to reduce mosquito populations.
- Free Care & Diagnosis: Malaria testing and treatment were provided at no cost, even for international travelers and migrants, preventing imported cases from spreading.
“This success reflects the hard work and dedication of countless health professionals, collaborators, communities, and international partners. It is proof of what can be achieved through collective commitment to public health,” said Cape Verde’s Health Minister, Dr. Filomena Gonçalves.
An Inspiration for Other African Nations
Cape Verde’s achievement sets an important example for other African countries. Malaria was once present on all nine of the nation’s inhabited islands, but in recent years, cases were only found on São Tiago Island—where efforts were concentrated to eliminate the disease.
Dr. Dorothy Achu Fosah from WHO Africa praised Cape Verde’s efforts, saying, “We are excited and pleased that malaria has been kicked out of the country.”
A Roadmap for the Future
While Cape Verde’s island geography played a role in its success, experts emphasize that its proactive health strategies were the key to eliminating malaria. This milestone proves that with strong policies, community involvement, and international support, malaria elimination is possible—even in regions where the disease is widespread.
Cape Verde’s journey to becoming malaria-free offers hope and a blueprint for other African nations aiming to follow in its footsteps.
