WHO has certified Cabo Verde as a malaria-free country, third in Africa

The World Health Organization (WHO) has certified Cabo Verde as a malaria-free country. With this declaration, Cabo Verde becomes part of the 43 countries and 1 territory that WHO has certified. This marks a notable accomplishment in global health.

Cabo Verde is the third WHO-certified country in Africa to have gotten rid of malaria. The elimination benefits include stronger health systems for fighting mosquito-borne diseases and attracting visitors, which is crucial for the tourism-dependent economy. Travelers from non-endemic regions can now visit Cabo Verde without malaria concerns.

Addressing the government of the country, the WHO Director-General, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, said, “I salute the government and people of Cabo Verde for their unwavering commitment and resilience in their journey to eliminating malaria.

“WHO’s certification of Cabo Verde being malaria-free is testament to the power of strategic public health planning, collaboration, and sustained effort to protect and promote health. Cabo Verde’s success is the latest in the global fight against malaria, and gives us hope that with existing tools, as well as new ones including vaccines, we can dare to dream of a malaria-free world.”

Certification of malaria elimination is the official recognition by WHO of a country’s malaria-free status. WHO certifies a country’s malaria-free status when it proves three consecutive years of interrupting indigenous transmission with credible evidence. The country must also demonstrate the capacity to prevent the re-establishment of transmission.

Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, praised Cabo Verde’s achievement. He says it’s a beacon of hope, showcasing malaria elimination as an achievable goal.

According to Matshidiso, the country’s milestone is an inspiring example for other nations to follow.