Senegal is on track to become the second country in Africa and the sixth worldwide to officially eliminate onchocerciasis, commonly known as river blindness.
After halting mass treatment in 2023, the country is now aiming for complete elimination by 2026, a monumental achievement that has been made possible by a dedicated network of community volunteers.
The permanent secretary of the Ministry of Health and Social Action, Serigne Mbaye, announced the country’s progress on August 15, stating, “We stopped mass treatment in January 2023, after confirming the interruption of transmission. We are now aiming for complete elimination by 2026.” This success places Senegal in a select group of countries that have conquered the parasitic disease, including Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, Guatemala, and Niger.
A crucial element of Senegal’s success is highlighted in the film “Fly Collectors,” which was screened in Dakar to commemorate the progress. The documentary focuses on the “blackfly collectors,” community volunteers who have spent years capturing the small black flies that transmit the disease. These volunteers, along with drug distributors, have played a pivotal role in reaching remote communities and ensuring the success of the elimination efforts.
Dr. Daniel Boakye, Senior Technical Advisor for The END Fund, praised the volunteers, saying, “The tireless work and dedication of the community members highlighted in the documentary… demonstrate that when we all unite around a common goal, success is achieved.”
The effort has also received strong support from international partners. Saeed Hamdan Al Naqbi, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Senegal, reaffirmed his country’s commitment through the “Reaching the Last Mile” Fund. Dr. Solomon Zewdu, CEO of the END Fund, also highlighted the role of his organization in collaborating with partners to provide essential medicines and funding.
Despite these remarkable achievements, health authorities emphasize the importance of maintaining vigilance. “This victory must not lead us to relax our vigilance,” Serigne Mbaye warned, stressing that continued surveillance is essential to ensure the disease does not return. Senegal has also recently received WHO certification for the elimination of trachoma, further solidifying its position as a leader in the fight against neglected tropical diseases in Africa.
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