Niger has made history by becoming the first African country and the fifth globally to eliminate onchocerciasis, also known as river blindness, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). This achievement marks a significant milestone in the fight against neglected tropical diseases.

Onchocerciasis, caused by the parasite Onchocerca volvulus, is the second leading infectious cause of blindness worldwide, primarily affecting rural communities in sub-Saharan Africa and Yemen. The disease is transmitted through the bites of infectious black flies found near rivers.

Niger’s journey to elimination began in 2014, when the country initiated assessments on the extinction of onchocerciasis transmission.

The combination of treatment and vector control measures led to a dramatic decrease in prevalence, from nearly 60% to 0.02%. 

The WHO attributes Niger’s success to several factors, including partnership and collaboration between the Nigerien government, WHO, and nongovernmental organizations, which worked together to deploy resources and technical guidance.

Vector control actions, combined with medications supplied by MSD, also contributed to the elimination of transmission. Ongoing tracking and monitoring of the disease’s prevalence and effects enabled timely adjustments in plans and ensured effective interventions. 

Niger’s achievement serves as a model for other African countries still battling onchocerciasis, demonstrating that elimination is possible with dedication and collaboration.

Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, congratulated Niger for its commitment to liberating its population from this blinding, stigmatizing illness that causes so much human suffering among the poorest.