Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), has declared Cabo Verde malaria-free on the advice of the WHO Technical Advisory Group on Malaria Elimination and Certification and the WHO Malaria Policy Advisory Group.
“I congratulate the government and people of Cabo Verde, and all partners, on this historic achievement,” stated Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
The certification marks a significant milestone in the global fight against malaria and reflects the dedication and collaborative efforts of Cabo Verde and its partners.
The road to malaria elimination is known for its challenges, requiring sustained commitment and collaboration.
Dr. Daniel Ngamije, the Director of Global Malaria Programme, emphasized the remarkable achievement, stating, “But through the sustained commitment and collaboration of affected countries and partners, eliminating malaria is feasible and reachable – and Cabo Verde is a striking example of this.”
Cabo Verde’s success in achieving malaria-free status is particularly commendable when considering the global malaria scenario.
Malaria remains a major public health concern, affecting millions of people worldwide.
According to WHO, there were an estimated 241 million malaria cases globally in 2020, with approximately 627,000 malaria-related deaths.
In Cabo Verde, the fight against malaria has been characterized by robust statistics and effective strategies.
Over the years, the country has consistently reported low malaria incidence.
The most recent data indicates that Cabo Verde had only a handful of malaria cases in the past few years, showcasing the success of its control and elimination efforts.
Cabo Verde, with a population of around 560,000 people, has demonstrated that with strategic efforts, it is possible to eliminate malaria.
The country’s commitment to health and well-being is further reflected in its life expectancy, which stands at approximately 74 years.
Efforts to combat malaria in Cabo Verde have been comprehensive, involving a combination of preventive measures, early diagnosis, and effective treatment.
The country has implemented vector control strategies, such as bed nets and indoor residual spraying, to reduce the transmission of the malaria parasite.
Additionally, Cabo Verde has emphasized community engagement and education to raise awareness about malaria prevention.
The achievement of malaria-free status is not only a health triumph but also has broader implications for the country’s socio-economic development.
A malaria-free Cabo Verde is likely to attract more tourists and investors, fostering economic growth and stability.
As Cabo Verde celebrates this historic milestone, the global health community sees it as an inspiration and a testament to the feasibility of eliminating malaria.
The collaborative efforts and commitment demonstrated by Cabo Verde serve as a beacon of hope in the ongoing global efforts to reduce the burden of malaria and ultimately eradicate it.