Regional Strategic Preparedness, Readiness and Response Plan for Cholera - African Region

Cholera remains a global threat to public health and an indicator of inequity and inadequate social development. The World Health Organization (WHO) African Region is one of the regions most affected by cholera and, along with the Eastern Mediterranean Region, accounted for 90% of global cases and deaths in 2023. The WHO African Region faces multiple challenges in controlling cholera, including poor water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure, population displacement, conflict, urbanization, climate change and weak health systems. However, there are also opportunities to accelerate action against cholera. These include the availability of effective tools and interventions, political commitment and leadership in the affected countries, the commitment of Member States to the implementation of the Regional Roadmap for cholera elimination by 2030, and the support and coordination of the Global Task Force on Cholera Control (GTFCC) and its partners.

Every death caused by cholera is preventable with access to safe WASH services, early detection, timely and effective case management, and the oral cholera vaccine (OCV). The Region is committed to the Global Roadmap to eliminate cholera by 2030. In October 2018, Member States adopted the Regional Framework for the Implementation of the Global Strategy for Cholera Prevention and Control, 2018–2030. This defines clear targets, indicators and milestones to address cholera’s predisposing factors and to contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and universal health coverage. Several countries across the African Region are implementing the Framework. Ending the public health impacts of cholera is within our reach.