Kenya has received global recognition for successfully eliminating Human African Trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness), a once-deadly neglected tropical disease that previously affected several parts of the country.
Cabinet Secretary for Health Aden Duale led Kenya’s delegation in receiving the certification during the 79th World Health Assembly, where the World Health Organization officially validated the country’s achievement.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus commended Kenya for its sustained leadership, strong surveillance systems, and effective multi-sectoral collaboration that made the elimination possible.
Sleeping sickness, transmitted by the tsetse fly, was once a significant public health threat in parts of western and coastal Kenya, including Busia, Bungoma, Siaya, Homa Bay, Migori, and Narok counties.
Health authorities confirmed that Kenya has recorded zero indigenous cases since 2009, following years of sustained control efforts. The elimination was formally validated by WHO in June 2025 and later confirmed at the national level in August 2025.
The Ministry of Health credited the achievement to coordinated efforts between national and county governments, frontline health workers, researchers, laboratory teams, and affected communities.
These stakeholders played a key role in strengthening disease surveillance, improving diagnostic capacity, and enhancing rapid response systems that helped prevent re-emergence.
Communities in formerly affected areas were also praised for their cooperation and participation in control programmes, which included early reporting of suspected cases and support for vector control initiatives.
Despite the milestone, health officials cautioned that elimination does not mean eradication. They stressed the need to maintain vigilance to prevent reintroduction or resurgence of the disease.
The Ministry of Health emphasized continued surveillance, early detection, vector control, community awareness, and integration of monitoring systems into routine healthcare services as key priorities going forward.
Kenya also pledged to share its experience with other African countries still battling neglected tropical diseases, positioning itself as a regional leader in disease elimination efforts.
Officials said the country’s success demonstrates that sustained investment in public health systems, research, and community engagement can deliver long-term disease control outcomes.
