By Issa Hussein - Reporter
Kenya, May 19, 2026 - Kenya has received global recognition from the World Health Organization (WHO) for eliminating Human African Trypanosomiasis, commonly known as sleeping sickness, marking a major milestone in the country’s public health efforts.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale led the Kenyan delegation in receiving the award during the 79th World Health Assembly, where WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus commended Kenya for its sustained commitment and coordinated response in defeating the disease.
“Kenya’s leadership, sustained commitment and strong multi-sectoral collaboration have been instrumental in eliminating the disease,” WHO said while presenting the certificate.
Sleeping sickness, a neglected tropical disease transmitted by tsetse flies, had previously posed a major health threat in counties including Busia, Bungoma, Siaya, Homa Bay, Migori and Narok.
Kenya has, however, maintained zero indigenous cases since 2009, paving the way for WHO validation in June 2025 and national confirmation two months later.
Speaking after receiving the recognition, Mr Duale praised communities, health workers and partners who played a key role in eliminating the disease.
“I commend the affected communities for their trust and participation, alongside frontline health workers, researchers, laboratory teams, county governments and national experts who strengthened surveillance, diagnosis and response systems,” he said.
The Health CS cautioned that despite the milestone, Kenya must remain vigilant to prevent a resurgence of the disease.
“Even as we celebrate, elimination is not the end. Sustaining these gains requires continued vigilance through surveillance, early detection, vector control, community awareness and integration of services into routine healthcare,” Mr Duale said.
He added that Kenya was ready to support regional efforts aimed at eliminating neglected tropical diseases across Africa by sharing lessons from its success.
“We remain committed to sharing our experience and supporting regional efforts toward eliminating neglected tropical diseases across Africa,” he said.
The Kenyan delegation at the ceremony included Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva Dr Fancy Too, Director-General for Health Dr Patrick Amoth, Disease and Health Agency chief executive Anthony Lenaiyara and Director of Family Health Dr Bashir Issak.
The recognition places Kenya among a growing number of African countries that have successfully eliminated at least one neglected tropical disease, a milestone seen as critical in strengthening public health systems and improving disease surveillance across the continent.
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