The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially certified Cape Verde as a malaria-free country, a momentous milestone for global health. This achievement places Cape Verde among the elite group of 43 countries and 1 territory that have received such certification from the WHO. Cape Verde is the third country in the WHO African region to attain this status, following Mauritius and Algeria, which were certified in 1973 and 2019, respectively. Notably, the African continent bears the highest malaria burden, accounting for approximately 95% of global malaria cases and 96% of related deaths in 2021. WHO Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, commended the commitment and resilience of the government and people of Cape Verde.
Cape Verde has become the third country in Africa to eliminate malaria, in a victory for public health authorities who followed through an extensive plan to tackle the mosquito-borne disease. The World Health Organization declared Cape Verde free of malaria, making it the third country in the African region to have achieved the status. Cape Verde, or officially Cabo Verde using the Portuguese name, is a tiny archipelago of 10 islands in the Atlantic Ocean. It joins Mauritius (in 1973) and Algeria (in 2009) in achieving the certification. “Cabo Verdes achievement is a beacon of hope for the African Region and beyond. It demonstrates that with strong political will, effective policies, community engagement and multi-sectoral collaboration, malaria elimination is an achievable goal,” said Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa.
This historic milestone is a testament to the dedicated efforts of health authorities and the community in Cape Verde. Achieving malaria-free status is a significant feat, considering the challenges that many African nations face in combating the disease. Cape Verde’s success serves as an inspiration and sets a powerful example for other countries in the region, demonstrating that with determined leadership, strategic policies, and collaborative efforts, the eradication of malaria is achievable.
The eradication of malaria in Cape Verde reflects not only the progress in public health strategies but also the resilience and determination of the nation’s government and people. It underlines the critical role of sustained political commitment, effective policies, community participation, and multi-sectoral collaboration in achieving significant health goals. Without a doubt, Cape Verde’s accomplishment serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, signaling that the fight against malaria is a winnable battle, even in regions heavily burdened by the disease.
In conclusion, Cape Verde’s achievement as the third African country to achieve malaria-free certification is a powerful testament to the dedication and resilience demonstrated by public health authorities and the commitment of the Cape Verdean people. This remarkable accomplishment is a beacon of hope for the African region and beyond, underscoring that with concerted efforts and strategic measures, the goal of malaria elimination is within reach.
