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Kenya Eliminates Sleeping Sickness as a Public Health Problem

  • 13 Aug 2025

On 8th August 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed that Kenya has eliminated human African trypanosomiasis (HAT), also known as sleeping sickness, as a public health concern — marking the country’s second victory over a neglected tropical disease after eradicating guinea worm in 2018.

Key Points

  • Global & Regional Milestone: Kenya becomes the 10th African nation and one of 57 countries worldwide to eliminate at least one neglected tropical disease (NTD), contributing towards WHO’s goal of 100 countries by 2030.
  • About HAT: Caused by the parasite Trypanosoma brucei and transmitted by tsetse flies, the disease can be fatal within weeks if untreated.
    • Kenya only recorded the rhodesiense form, mainly in eastern and southern Africa.
  • Historic Progress: First detected in Kenya in the early 20th century, the last indigenous case was reported in 2009, with two imported cases in 2012.
  • Surveillance & Control Measures: Strengthened disease surveillance in 12 health facilities across six historically endemic counties — Busia, Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Migori, and Kwale — with upgraded diagnostics, trained staff, and vector control measures.