Libya has officially eliminated trachoma as a public health problem, marking a significant victory in the fight against neglected tropical diseases. The World Health Organization (WHO) announced the validation today, recognizing the country’s sustained efforts to combat the preventable cause of blindness. This achievement underscores the possibility of overcoming public health challenges even amidst complex circumstances, offering hope for communities vulnerable to similar diseases.
The milestone positions Libya as the 28th country globally and the 8th in the WHO’s Eastern Mediterranean Region to eliminate trachoma. “This milestone reflects Libya’s determination to safeguard the health of its people and reinforces our conviction that progress against neglected tropical diseases is possible everywhere,” stated Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. The success is particularly notable given Libya’s recent history of political instability and humanitarian pressures, which have strained health services and increased demand for basic necessities.
Trachoma, caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, is spread through close personal contact and is often associated with poor sanitation and limited access to water. Repeated infections can lead to scarring of the inner eyelid, causing eyelashes to turn inward and scratch the cornea – a painful condition known as trichiasis that can ultimately result in irreversible blindness. Globally, the disease disproportionately affects impoverished communities in tropical areas, but sustained public health interventions are proving effective in its elimination.
A Long History of Control Efforts
While today’s announcement marks a pivotal moment, efforts to control trachoma in Libya date back decades. Early initiatives by the Ministry of Health in the 1970s and 1980s focused on controlling infectious eye diseases, and subsequent strengthening of the health system led to a dramatic reduction in transmission rates. Though, it was in 2017 that the Ministry of Health formally prioritized trachoma elimination as part of its National Prevention of Blindness Programme.
A key component of the renewed effort involved comprehensive surveys conducted in 2022, with support from the WHO, Sightsavers, the International Trachoma Initiative, and Tropical Data. These surveys targeted six southern districts where trachoma was suspected to persist. Initial findings revealed active trachoma and trichiasis prevalence rates below WHO elimination thresholds, with the exception of Wadi Al Hayaa/Ghat. Following these results, a targeted trichiasis surgery campaign was successfully implemented in the affected area.
A follow-up survey in 2025 confirmed that the prevalence of trichiasis had fallen below the WHO’s elimination threshold, solidifying Libya’s progress and paving the way for today’s validation. This multi-pronged approach – encompassing surveillance, surgical intervention, and capacity building – proved crucial to overcoming the challenges posed by the disease.
Overcoming Adversity Through Collaboration
Libya’s success story is a testament to the power of collaboration, and perseverance. Despite years of political instability and humanitarian challenges, the national trachoma elimination program successfully integrated surveillance systems, expanded access to surgical care, and invested in training for eye health workers. The program also fostered strong partnerships with national and international stakeholders, ensuring a coordinated and effective response.
Dr. Mohamed Al-Ghoj, Acting Minister of Health, expressed pride in the achievement, stating, “This validation is a source of pride for Libya and a testament to the commitment of our health workers and communities.” He emphasized that even during difficult times, the focus remained on improving eye health services and ensuring that no one was left behind. Dr. Ahmed Zouiten, WHO Representative in Libya, echoed this sentiment, describing the success as “a collective public health triumph achieved through science, national mobilization and international solidarity.”
The WHO Country Office in Libya provided extensive technical and operational support throughout the process, highlighting the importance of sustained international assistance in tackling neglected tropical diseases. The organization continues to support endemic countries in their efforts to accelerate progress towards the global goal of eliminating trachoma as a public health problem.
The Broader Fight Against Neglected Tropical Diseases
Trachoma is just one of 21 neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) that affect over one billion people worldwide, primarily in impoverished communities in tropical regions. These diseases cause devastating health, social, and economic consequences, yet often receive limited attention and funding. The WHO’s roadmap for neglected tropical diseases 2021–2030 sets ambitious targets for control, elimination, and eradication, and in 2025 alone, nine countries were validated for achieving these goals.
With the validation of trachoma elimination, Libya joins a growing list of nations – now totaling 59 globally and 10 in the Eastern Mediterranean Region – that have eliminated at least one NTD. This progress demonstrates that with sustained commitment, strategic investments, and collaborative partnerships, it is possible to build significant strides in the fight against these debilitating diseases. The WHO continues to provide resources and guidance to countries working towards NTD elimination.
Looking ahead, Libya will continue to monitor for any resurgence of trachoma and maintain its strengthened eye health infrastructure. The country’s success serves as an inspiring example for other nations striving to eliminate this preventable cause of blindness and improve the health and well-being of their populations.
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