Senegal Declared Free of Trachoma by WHO
Senegal was officially declared free of trachoma by the World Health Organization (WHO) in July 2025. This achievement marks a major victory in public health and disease elimination. Senegal is now the 25th country globally and the 9th in Africa to eliminate trachoma as a public health issue. Despite this success, ongoing funding cuts pose risks to the control of other neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) in the country.
Background on Trachoma
Trachoma is a contagious bacterial infection caused by *Chlamydia trachomatis*. It primarily affects the eyes and is a leading cause of preventable blindness worldwide. The disease is prevalent in poor and rural areas across Africa, Asia, the Americas, Australia, and the Middle East. It causes blindness or visual impairment in about 1.9 million people, representing roughly 1.4 per cent of global blindness cases.
Senegal’s Elimination Journey
Senegal’s fight against trachoma began in the early 20th century with the disease recognised as a major cause of blindness by the 1980s. The country joined the WHO Alliance for the Global Elimination of Trachoma in 1998. Senegal conducted its first national survey in 2000 and completed full mapping by 2017 with support from international projects. The government integrated trachoma control into national eye health programmes ensuring sustained efforts.
Implementation of the SAFE Strategy
Senegal applied the WHO-endorsed SAFE strategy, which includes Surgery for advanced disease, Antibiotic treatment through mass drug administration, Facial cleanliness promotion, and Environmental improvements such as better water and sanitation. This comprehensive approach reached 2.8 million people across 24 districts. Antibiotics, mainly azithromycin, were donated by Pfizer through the International Trachoma Initiative.
Significance and Regional Context
Senegal is the second African country after Gambia to eliminate trachoma and follows Guinea-worm disease elimination in 2004. This success reflects strong national commitment and international collaboration. Africa bears the highest burden of trachoma and leads global efforts to combat it. Other countries that have achieved elimination include India, Morocco, and Nepal.
Challenges Ahead for Neglected Tropical Diseases
Despite progress, Senegal faces threats to NTD control due to funding disruptions. Recently, the US government froze $114.5 million in aid for USAID’s Neglected Tropical Diseases Program, affecting 26 countries including Senegal. This halt endangers efforts against diseases like lymphatic filariasis, onchocerciasis, schistosomiasis, and others. Senegal continues to pursue WHO’s 2021-2030 roadmap for NTD elimination through mass drug administration and community outreach.
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