By Joke Kujenya
MALARIA, a disease that once devastated populations in Georgia, has now been declared eradicated from the country.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has certified Georgia as malaria-free, making it one of 45 countries and one territory to achieve this status.
This milestone underscores decades of sustained investment in healthcare infrastructure, robust prevention strategies, and early detection systems.
“Georgia’s success in eliminating malaria demonstrates the power of sustained effort and dedication,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General.
“This achievement gives hope that a malaria-free world is within reach.”
The battle against malaria in Georgia spans nearly a century. At its height in the 1920s, about 30% of the population suffered from malaria caused by the P. vivax parasite.
Intensive eradication efforts began in the 1940s with mosquito control programmes and improved diagnostic and treatment facilities.
Despite setbacks during World War II, by 1970, the country successfully interrupted the transmission of all malaria parasite species.
However, malaria re-emerged in 2002, with 474 cases recorded that year.
This resurgence prompted renewed commitments, including Georgia’s signing of the Tashkent Declaration in 2005 alongside nine other countries.
Intensified efforts followed, and by 2009, the last indigenous case was reported.
Georgia subsequently joined the WHO European Region’s collective achievement of zero indigenous malaria cases by 2015.
Georgia’s Minister of Health, Mikheil Sarjveladze, described the certification as a testament to the resilience and effectiveness of the country’s healthcare system.
“This success means that Georgia can confidently address other critical health challenges,” he noted.
WHO’s certification process requires countries to demonstrate at least three consecutive years without indigenous malaria transmission and to maintain the capacity to prevent its resurgence.
Independent assessments by the Technical Advisory Group on Malaria Elimination and Certification in 2024 confirmed Georgia’s success, citing its well-functioning health system and strong public-private collaboration.
The certification also marks a significant step toward the WHO European Region becoming the first malaria-free region globally, with Türkiye being the only remaining country awaiting certification.
Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, commended Georgia’s achievement, saying, “This progress showcases the region’s commitment to eradicating one of the world’s deadliest diseases.”
As Georgia celebrates this milestone, the focus shifts to sustaining malaria-free status while addressing other pressing health issues.
The achievement not only strengthens national health resilience but also serves as an inspiration to other countries battling malaria worldwide.
