In a groundbreaking achievement, Egypt has been certified malaria-free by the World Health Organization (WHO), marking the culmination of nearly a century of relentless efforts to eradicate the disease. This milestone is a testament to the unwavering commitment of the Egyptian government and people to rid themselves of a scourge that has plagued the nation since ancient times.
WHO Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, hailed the achievement, saying, "Malaria is as old as Egyptian civilization itself, but the disease that plagued pharaohs now belongs to its history and not its future". Egypt's journey to malaria-free status began in the 1920s, with early initiatives focusing on reducing human-mosquito contact and designating malaria a notifiable disease in 1930.
The country's success in controlling malaria was further bolstered by the construction of the Aswan Dam in 1969, which led to the implementation of rigorous vector control and public health surveillance projects. Egypt's strong cross-border partnership with neighboring countries, particularly Sudan, played a crucial role in preventing the re-establishment of local malaria transmission.
To achieve malaria-free status, Egypt demonstrated the interruption of indigenous malaria transmission by Anopheles mosquitoes nationwide for at least three consecutive years. The country also showcased its capacity to prevent the re-establishment of transmission, a critical component of the WHO's certification process.
Globally, Egypt joins 43 other countries and one territory that have achieved malaria-free status. This accomplishment serves as a beacon of hope for other endemic countries, particularly in Africa, where 95% of malaria-related deaths occur, claiming over 600,000 lives annually.