Kenya Eliminates Sleeping Sickness as a Public Health Threat

The World Health Organization (WHO) has certified Kenya as having eliminated human African trypanosomiasis (HAT), or sleeping sickness, as a public health problem—making it the tenth country to achieve this milestone. This marks Kenya’s second elimination of a neglected tropical disease, following Guinea worm disease in 2018.

HAT, caused by Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense and spread by tsetse flies, progresses rapidly and is fatal without treatment. Kenya’s last local case was reported in 2009, with the last imported cases in 2012. The country’s success stems from years of sustained surveillance, diagnostic upgrades in 12 health facilities, and coordinated vector control efforts led by national and county authorities, research institutions, and the Kenya Tsetse and Trypanosomiasis Eradication Council.

Kenya will now maintain rigorous post-validation monitoring to prevent resurgence, supported by WHO and partners. This achievement safeguards public health and supports future economic growth.

11-08-2025