A Continental Push to Eliminate Cholera by 2030

African Nations Unite Against Cholera: A Collective Call to Eradicate the Disease by 2030

By Archyde News Desk

June 4,2025

In an unprecedented show of solidarity,the Assembly of Heads of State and Government from 20 cholera-affected nations across Africa have collectively committed to stopping ongoing outbreaks and eradicating the devastating disease by 2030. This significant political commitment underscores the urgency of addressing cholera as a critical public health crisis on the continent.

The timing of this unified call to action is notably poignant. Africa is currently witnessing a surge in cholera cases, coupled with deteriorating mortality rates. Compounding these challenges, global health funding dedicated to combating the disease is experiencing a decline. Furthermore, many African countries are facing strained financial capacities due to competing emerging health emergencies and increasing debt repayment obligations.

This collective resolve aims to reverse these alarming trends. The heads of state represent a united front, understanding that a coordinated approach is essential to effectively combat cholera.This initiative seeks to bolster preventative measures, improve treatment access, and strengthen surveillance systems across member states.

The commitment marks a pivotal moment, signaling a shared determination to overcome the persistent threat of cholera. It highlights the growing recognition that sustained political will and resource allocation are paramount to achieving the ambitious goal of cholera elimination. experts emphasize that such broad-based cooperation is crucial for success against widespread infectious diseases.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has consistently warned about the resurgence of cholera,particularly in regions grappling with poor sanitation,lack of access to clean water,and humanitarian crises. Efforts to combat the spread of this waterborne illness require robust infrastructure and community engagement.

What programmatic adjustments are needed to accelerate progress towards the 90% reduction in cholera deaths by 2030, considering the recent 35% increase in cases?

Understanding the Current Cholera Landscape

Cholera, an acute diarrheal infection caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, remains a significant public health threat globally, especially in areas with inadequate water treatment, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH). Recent data paints a concerning picture. As of May 2025 (epidemiological weeks 18-21), 52,589 new cases of cholera and/or acute watery diarrhoea were reported across 17 countries in three WHO regions – a 35% increase from April [1]. While fatalities saw a slight decrease (4% down from the previous month), 552 cholera-related deaths were still recorded globally during the same period [1]. This underscores the urgent need for intensified efforts to combat this preventable disease. Key areas affected include parts of Africa, Asia, and the Americas, often linked to humanitarian crises, conflict, and climate change.

The Global Strategy for Cholera Control: A Roadmap to 2030

The World Health Association (WHO) launched the Global Strategy for Cholera Control – “Ending Cholera – A Global Roadmap to 2030” in 2017. This ambitious plan aims to reduce cholera deaths by 90% and eliminate cholera in at least 20 countries by 2030. The strategy is built on six pillars:

1. Strengthening Surveillance: Accurate and timely data collection is crucial. This includes laboratory confirmation of cases, monitoring trends, and identifying high-risk areas.
2. Investing in WASH Infrastructure: Providing access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene practices is the cornerstone of cholera prevention.
3. Enhancing Access to Treatment: Rapid and effective treatment, including oral cholera vaccine (OCV) and intravenous fluids, is vital to reduce mortality.
4. Developing and Utilizing OCV: Expanding OCV coverage, particularly in high-risk areas, is a key preventative measure.
5. Strengthening Health Systems: Building resilient health systems capable of responding to cholera outbreaks is essential.
6. Addressing Environmental Factors: Understanding and mitigating the environmental factors that contribute to cholera transmission, such as climate change and flooding.

The Role of Oral Cholera Vaccine (OCV) in Prevention

The OCV has become a critical tool in cholera prevention and control.It’s a cost-effective intervention, particularly in endemic areas and during outbreaks.

Preventative Campaigns: Proactive vaccination campaigns targeting high-risk populations can significantly reduce incidence.

Reactive Campaigns: Responding to outbreaks with rapid vaccination campaigns can help contain the spread.

Multi-Round Vaccination: In some settings, multiple rounds of OCV are needed to achieve and maintain adequate protection.

Challenges to OCV Supply: Global demand for OCV frequently enough outstrips supply, creating challenges for equitable distribution. The International Coordination Group (ICG) manages the limited global stockpile.

WASH Interventions: The First Line of Defense

Improving Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) is paramount. cholera thrives in environments where these basic needs are unmet. Effective WASH interventions include:

Safe Water Sources: Providing access to clean, treated water through wells, boreholes, or piped water systems.

Sanitation Facilities: Constructing and maintaining latrines and sewage systems to prevent fecal contamination of water sources.

Hygiene Promotion: Educating communities about the importance of handwashing with soap,safe food handling,and proper sanitation practices.

Water Quality Monitoring: Regularly testing water sources for contamination and implementing appropriate treatment measures.

Case Study: bangladesh – A Long-Term Cholera Hotspot

Bangladesh has historically been one of the most cholera-affected countries globally. However, sustained investments in WASH infrastructure, coupled with OCV campaigns and improved surveillance, have led to significant reductions in cholera incidence and mortality. The International Center for Diarrhoeal Disease research, Bangladesh (icddr,b) has played a pivotal role in research, treatment, and prevention efforts. Their work demonstrates the effectiveness of a multi-pronged approach. This includes establishing a network of treatment centers and conducting ongoing research into Vibrio cholerae strains and antibiotic resistance.

Addressing Climate Change and Cholera

Climate change is exacerbating the risk of cholera outbreaks.Extreme weather events, such as floods and droughts, can disrupt water and sanitation systems, creating ideal conditions for the spread of the disease.

Increased Flooding: Flooding contaminates water sources with sewage and increases the risk of transmission.

Water Scarcity: Droughts can force people to use unsafe water sources.

Displacement: Climate-related displacement can lead to overcrowding and poor sanitation, increasing vulnerability to cholera.

Adaptation Strategies: Building climate-resilient WASH infrastructure and implementing early warning systems are crucial adaptation strategies.

The Importance of Surveillance and Early detection

Robust surveillance systems are essential for detecting outbreaks early and responding effectively. This includes