The World Health Organization (WHO) and the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief) have signed a $5.3 million agreement to strengthen cholera preparedness and response in Cameroon, Chad, Mali, Niger, and Nigeria. The agreement was announced by the WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr Matshidiso Moeti.
The funding aims to support surveillance, case management, and community engagement in a region that has experienced recurrent cholera outbreaks. The Lake Chad Basin and Sahel countries face persistent challenges in controlling the disease due to limited health infrastructure, population displacement, and cross-border transmission.
Cholera remains a significant public health threat in these countries, particularly during rainy seasons when water sources become contaminated. The WHO has previously reported that the African region has seen a rise in cholera cases in recent years, with multiple countries reporting outbreaks simultaneously.
The partnership with KSrelief is part of broader efforts to mobilize resources for cholera control. The agreement is expected to enhance early detection and rapid response capabilities, ultimately reducing the burden of cholera in the affected communities.
