The United Kingdom has praised Kenya for its remarkable achievement in eliminating sleeping sickness, also known as human African trypanosomiasis, marking a proud moment for the country and the entire African continent.

In a recent statement posted on X on Monday, August 11, 2025, the UK’s mission in Kenya congratulated the nation on reaching this important milestone.

“A proud moment for Kenya! Eliminating sleeping sickness is a huge win for healthcare in Africa.” the post read.

Sleeping sickness, a deadly disease caused by parasites transmitted through tsetse flies, has long been a significant health challenge across parts of Africa. Kenya’s success in eliminating it as a public health problem is a clear sign of progress in improving healthcare systems and protecting communities.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) officially declared Kenya free of sleeping sickness, making it the 10th African country to achieve this feat. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus applauded Kenya’s efforts and commitment, describing it as a crucial step toward a healthier Africa free from neglected tropical diseases.

Kenya’s continued health success

This achievement follows Kenya’s earlier success in 2018 when it was certified free of Guinea worm disease, another neglected tropical illness. The elimination of sleeping sickness is a major win for the country’s health sector, showing the positive results of sustained efforts in disease control, surveillance, and treatment.

The UK government has played a key role in supporting Kenya’s health programmes through funding and partnerships. The UK is a leading contributor to the WHO’s work in Kenya, helping strengthen health systems and tackle dangerous diseases that threaten vulnerable populations.

Together with WHO and local health authorities, the UK is committed to continuing this vital work, pushing for a future where all Africans can live free from preventable diseases.