WHO Declares Kenya Free of Sleeping Sickness, A Major Public Health Victory

The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially certified Kenya free of human African trypanosomiasis (HAT)—commonly known as sleeping sickness—as a public health challenge. This milestone makes Kenya the 10th country to achieve elimination status, marking a significant victory in the fight against neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).

A Landmark Health Achievement

In a statement from Nairobi, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus congratulated the government and people of Kenya on their success. He noted that Kenya’s achievement is part of a broader continental effort to make Africa free of neglected tropical diseases, improving the lives of millions.

This is the second NTD eliminated in Kenya, following its certification as Guinea worm disease-free in 2018.

Understanding Sleeping Sickness

Human African trypanosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by protozoa transmitted through the bite of an infected tsetse fly. There are two forms of the disease—one more prevalent in West and Central Africa (Trypanosoma brucei gambiense) and another in East Africa (Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense). Kenya was affected by the latter.

Symptoms include,

• Fever and headaches
• Joint pain and muscle aches
• Fatigue and weakness
• In advanced stages: confusion, disrupted sleep patterns, and behavioural changes due to parasite invasion of the central nervous system
• If untreated, sleeping sickness can be fatal.

How Kenya Achieved Elimination

Kenya’s success comes after decades of sustained public health efforts, including,

• Tsetse fly control through traps, insecticides, and habitat management
• Improved diagnostic tools enabling early detection and treatment
• Community awareness campaigns in endemic areas
• Strong partnerships between local health authorities, WHO, and NGOs

Broader Implications for Africa

Kenya’s certification adds momentum to Africa’s push to eradicate neglected tropical diseases. The elimination of sleeping sickness in multiple countries demonstrates that targeted interventions, consistent surveillance, and community engagement can lead to lasting health victories.

Dr. Tedros stressed that continued vigilance is essential to prevent reintroduction of the disease, especially in regions where tsetse flies remain present.