Ending Disease in Africa

The concept of ‘ending disease’ in this document encompasses eradication, elimination and control of the diseases that currently burden the WHO African region. The concept is firmly rooted in the sustainable development goal targets relating to disease control: 

• SDG 3.3 By 2030, end the epidemics of AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria and NTDs and combat hepatitis, waterborne diseases and other communicable diseases.
• SDG 3.4 By 2030, reduce by one-third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being. 

‘Ending’ is used to describe a process of setting targets, as prescribed by the SDGs, with measurable end points, that are monitored and evaluated using scientifically determined indicators. ‘Ending disease in Africa’ defines a vision and is an aspirational goal. 

A range of factors determine the management strategy best suited to address individual diseases, including the type of disease, the disease vector, and the likelihood of success. There are several diseases in the African Region that are considered significant public health threats, and as such, have been prioritized for disease management using a range of regional eradication, elimination, and control strategies.