Cape Verde's Malaria-Free Status Shines as a Ray of Hope for Africa

Cape Verde has officially been declared malaria-free by the World Health Organization (WHO), marking a significant victory in the ongoing battle against the disease. This accomplishment has been celebrated not only for its positive impact on public health but also for its potential to boost tourism, a vital source of revenue for the country.

Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva expressed his joy, calling it a "historic moment" deserving of celebration. He highlighted the elimination of malaria as a key factor in enhancing mobility and attracting more visitors to the country.

Situated in the central Atlantic Ocean, Cape Verde, comprising 10 islands, faced severe malaria epidemics in densely populated areas before implementing targeted interventions. It now joins the ranks of Mauritius and Algeria as the third African nation to achieve malaria-free status.

Malaria remains a deadly scourge in Africa, causing hundreds of thousands of deaths annually. The WHO reported 608,000 global fatalities and 250 million infections in 2022, with Africa bearing the brunt, accounting for 95% of cases and 96% of deaths in 2021.

However, amid the joyous news from Cape Verde, concerns persist about the escalating health crisis in Ethiopia, where outbreaks of malaria, measles, leishmaniasis, and dengue have raised alarms.

The WHO praised Cape Verde's achievement as a "beacon of hope" for Africa and emphasized that strong political will, effective policies, community engagement, and collaboration across sectors are crucial for malaria elimination.

The certification of elimination is granted when a country demonstrates rigorous and credible evidence of interrupting malaria transmission for three consecutive years. Additionally, the nation must show the capability to prevent the disease's reestablishment.

While celebrating the success, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus cautioned that sustaining a malaria-free status requires continued investment in Cape Verde's robust primary health system.

National Director of Health Angela Gomes acknowledged challenges, such as mosquito resistance to pesticides, emphasizing the need for ongoing efforts. A system for quick diagnoses and threat detection has been implemented, along with research to improve mosquito-fighting strategies and community interventions to raise awareness.

Cape Verde adopted the goal of malaria elimination in 2007, resulting in a strategic plan from 2009 to 2013. This plan prioritized expanded diagnosis, early and effective treatment, and comprehensive case reporting and investigation.

Despite the coronavirus pandemic, Cape Verde maintained its vigilance against malaria. Free diagnosis and treatment were provided to international travelers and migrants to prevent the importation of cases.

Looking ahead, the WHO is not solely relying on pesticides and awareness campaigns. The recent inclusion of the R21 malaria vaccine in the list of pre-qualified vaccines, along with the RTS,S/AS01, signals a new era in malaria control. While optimism surrounds these developments, health professionals caution against over-reliance on preventive shots, emphasizing the importance of bed nets and insecticide spraying.

With children under 5 accounting for 80% of malaria deaths in Africa, the WHO's push for vaccination represents a crucial step forward. Several African countries are integrating malaria vaccines into routine immunization programs, marking progress in the fight against this deadly disease.

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