IMAGE CREDIT: CHAGPT
In 2024, Egypt achieved a major public health milestone: it was certified malaria-free by the World Health Organization (WHO). As such, it joined four other countries that have achieved that feat in Africa
While the African continent still bears over 90% of the global malaria burden, Egypt’s story stands out as a rare and hard-earned success.
A new study published in PLOS ONE unpacks how Egypt eliminated malaria and what lessons it offers to other African countries still grappling with the disease.
Egypt’s malaria elimination plan wasn’t based on new inventions but on proven tools used consistently and strategically. These included insecticide-treated bed nets, indoor residual spraying, timely diagnosis and treatment, and widespread community education.
Over 15 years, the country saw malaria incidence drop by 96%. Use of mosquito nets rose to 78%, and 91% of malaria cases were treated quickly. A well-trained network of community health volunteers helped deliver interventions across both urban and rural regions.
From the study, the authors observe that existing tools can work–if they are well-planned, targeted, and backed by data.
Community at the centre
A major reason for Egypt’s success was its focus on community engagement. Health workers collaborated with local leaders to build trust. Volunteers visited homes to teach people how to use nets, identify symptoms, and seek treatment early. These personalized efforts were particularly effective in rural areas.
The study also found that the acceptability of malaria interventions among the population was high–about 87%–thanks to these localised and culturally sensitive approaches.
Other African countries, the authors suggest, should invest more in community health systems, not just hospitals.
Protecting the most vulnerable
Egypt’s program targeted children under five and pregnant women, who are most at risk from malaria. These two groups made up nearly half of the population served. As a result, malaria-related complications among pregnant women dropped by 78%.
Egypt’s strategy was also guided by data. A strong surveillance system allowed health officials to detect 98% of malaria cases within 48 hours of symptom onset. This rapid response helped contain transmission before it could spread.
The country also adapted its strategies over time—changing insecticides when resistance developed and tailoring education materials to local languages and customs.
This kind of flexibility and data-driven decision-making is a key takeaway for other countries.
Good for health and the economy
Malaria elimination turned out to be a smart financial decision. Egypt spent about $24 per disability-adjusted life year (DALY) averted–one of the lowest global costs for such programs. Over 15 years, the country saved an estimated $1.5 billion in healthcare costs and lost productivity.
This challenges the idea that malaria elimination is too expensive for lower-income countries. In fact, the study argues, the long-term savings far outweigh the short-term costs.
A model but not a copy-paste
While Egypt’s experience offers a clear blueprint, it won’t be a one-size-fits-all solution, the study authors say. The country had some advantages: an arid climate, a less aggressive mosquito species, and a centralized health system. Sub-Saharan countries with more intense malaria transmission will need to adapt Egypt’s lessons to local conditions.
As the study concludes, malaria elimination in Africa is possible but only with commitment, coordination, and courage.
“Now is the time for bold leadership, targeted funding, and unwavering dedication,” the authors write.
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