Algeria Eliminates Trachoma, Marking Historic Public Health Victory in Africa

In a landmark achievement for global health, the World Health Organization (WHO) has officially validated Algeria as having eliminated trachoma as a public health problem, making it the 10th country in the WHO African Region and the 29th worldwide to reach this milestone.

Trachoma, the leading infectious cause of blindness globally, continues to threaten millions, particularly in low-resource settings. Despite significant progress, the disease remains endemic in 30 countries, with around 97 million people still at risk and approximately 1.9 million people already suffering from visual impairment or blindness due to the condition.

A Century-Long Fight Against Preventable Blindness

Algeria's success is the result of a sustained, decades-long national effort. The fight against trachoma dates back to the early 20th century, beginning with the establishment of the Pasteur Institute of Algeria in 1909. Following independence, national leadership strengthened efforts through the development of a free public healthcare system introduced in 1974, significantly expanding access to care.

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus hailed the achievement as a model for global health progress.

"Algeria's elimination of trachoma is a historic triumph that connects the past, present, and future of public health… This milestone proves that with sustained political will and on-the-ground leadership, we can eliminate neglected tropical diseases," he said.

Comprehensive Strategy Drives Results

Central to Algeria's success was the consistent implementation of the WHO-recommended SAFE strategy, which includes:

• Surgery to treat advanced cases (trachomatous trichiasis)

• Antibiotics to eliminate infection

• Facial cleanliness campaigns to prevent transmission

• Environmental improvements, particularly access to water and sanitation

These interventions were reinforced through nationwide awareness campaigns, expanded healthcare access, and targeted efforts in high-risk المناطق, particularly in southern provinces where the disease persisted.

A focused three-year elimination strategy (2013–2015), combined with the establishment of a National Expert Committee, accelerated progress in 12 endemic provinces, including Adrar, Tamanrasset, and Ouargla.

Rigorous Validation Process

WHO-compliant surveys conducted in 2022 confirmed that Algeria had met the elimination thresholds for active trachoma across all regions. Remaining gaps in a few areas were addressed through door-to-door screening and treatment, ensuring full compliance with global standards.

In December 2025, Algeria's Ministry of Health submitted a comprehensive dossier demonstrating that all WHO criteria had been met, paving the way for official validation.

The country's strong health infrastructure—including a robust school health system, extensive eye care coverage, and improved access to water and sanitation—was cited as critical to sustaining elimination in the long term.

Transforming Lives and Communities

Health experts emphasize that eliminating trachoma has far-reaching socio-economic benefits. The disease disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, and blindness can lead to loss of livelihoods, reduced productivity, and increased caregiving burdens.

"Trachoma devastates individuals and communities profoundly… Algeria's milestone transforms the health and well-being of children, women and entire families," said WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Mohamed Janabi.

Sustaining Gains and Preventing Resurgence

While the validation marks a major success, WHO has stressed the importance of continued surveillance to prevent re-emergence. Monitoring previously affected communities will remain a priority, with ongoing technical support provided to Algerian health authorities.

Algeria's Health Minister, Professor Mohamed Seddik Ait Messaoudene, described the achievement as a collective national victory.

"This represents nearly fifty years of mobilization… and underscores our unwavering commitment to the health of our population," he said.

A Global Model for Disease Elimination

Algeria's success offers a powerful example for other countries still battling neglected tropical diseases. It demonstrates that long-term commitment, coordinated action, and investment in public health systems can deliver transformative outcomes—even against diseases deeply rooted in poverty and inequality.

As global health agencies continue efforts to eliminate trachoma worldwide, Algeria's achievement stands as a reminder that preventable blindness can be eradicated with sustained political will and community engagement.