In a monumental public health achievement, the World Health Organization (WHO) has certified Egypt as malaria-free, marking the successful eradication of a disease that has plagued the country since ancient times. This certification, achieved after nearly 100 years of concerted efforts by the Egyptian government and its people, is a testament to the nation’s dedication to public health and the well-being of its more than 100 million inhabitants.

Historic Milestone in Disease Eradication

“Malaria is as old as Egyptian civilization itself, but the disease that plagued pharaohs now belongs to its history and not its future,” said Dr.

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, as he announced the certification. He praised Egypt’s commitment to eradicating the disease and hailed the achievement as a significant milestone for the Eastern Mediterranean Region. “This certification of Egypt as malaria-free is truly historic and a testament to the commitment of the people and government of Egypt,” he added, noting that the success serves as an inspiration to other countries in the region.

Egypt becomes the third country in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region to be certified malaria-free, following the United Arab Emirates and Morocco, and the first since 2010. Globally, 44 countries and one territory have achieved this status.

A New Phase in Public Health

While celebrating the achievement, Egyptian Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar emphasized that the certification marks the beginning of a new chapter rather than the end of the journey. "Receiving the malaria elimination certificate today is not the end of the journey but the beginning of a new phase," he said.

 “We must now work tirelessly and vigilantly to sustain our achievement through maintaining the highest standards for surveillance, diagnosis, and treatment."

He reaffirmed Egypt's commitment to maintaining its malaria-free status by enhancing its healthcare system and continuing multisectoral efforts to prevent future outbreaks. "We will continue with determination and strong will to safeguard the health of all people in Egypt under the wise leadership's guidance," he said.

A Century-Long Battle Against Malaria

Malaria has been present in Egypt for thousands of years, with genetic evidence of the disease found in the mummies of pharaohs, including Tutankhamun. Early efforts to combat malaria began in the 1920s, when Egypt prohibited rice cultivation near homes to reduce human-mosquito contact. By 1930, malaria was declared a notifiable disease, and the country opened its first malaria control station focused on diagnosis, treatment, and surveillance.

Despite these early efforts, Egypt faced a significant malaria outbreak during World War II, with over 3 million cases reported due to population displacement and disruption of medical supplies. The country’s success in controlling the outbreak led to the establishment of 16 treatment divisions and the recruitment of more than 4,000 health workers.

In the 1960s, the construction of the Aswan Dam created new challenges, as standing water became a breeding ground for mosquitoes. However, Egypt, in collaboration with Sudan, implemented a rigorous vector control program and public health surveillance to prevent malaria outbreaks.

A National Triumph with Global Implications

By 2001, Egypt had effectively brought malaria under control, and in 2014, it swiftly contained a small outbreak in the Aswan Governorate through prompt treatment, vector control, and public education. Malaria diagnosis and treatment are now provided free-of-charge across the country, with health professionals trained nationwide to detect and respond to cases, including at border regions.

The certification of Egypt as malaria-free reflects the nation’s resilience and ability to overcome major public health challenges. Dr. Hanan Balkhy, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, lauded Egypt’s achievement as a beacon of hope for the global fight against malaria. "Today, Egypt has proven that with vision, dedication, and unity, we can overcome the greatest challenges," she said. "This success is not just a victory for public health but a sign of hope for the entire world."

Egypt's robust cross-border partnerships, particularly with Sudan, played a pivotal role in preventing the re-establishment of local malaria transmission, ultimately paving the way for its certification as malaria-free.

As Egypt enters a new phase of vigilance and prevention, its journey serves as a powerful example of what can be achieved through sustained efforts, global collaboration, and a strong public health infrastructure.