South Africa nets global WHO award for malaria elimination

South Africa has been recognised on a global stage for its malaria-elimination efforts.

SA was among the first recipients of a Word Health Organisation (WHO) award that recognises countries which have eliminated the disease.

China and El Salvador were also among the countries that walked away with awards at a ceremony in Cape Town.

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Health department spokesperson Foster Mohale said in a statement: "The South African government is committed to eliminating malaria, and as such, a solid investment case was developed and received through a conditional grant.

"The country has put these resources to good use and ensured that its programmes were capacitated and availed necessary resources to implement its malaria-elimination strategies."

Mohale added that the department worked with stakeholders, including research institutions and other government departments, to eradicate malaria.

"Malaria elimination involves systematically developing strategies and ensuring their robust implementation. Malaria is a preventable and curable disease. If not diagnosed and treated early, it can also be fatal," he said.