Angola: Cunene Steps Up Community Surveillance to Accelerate the Eradication of Guinea Worm

Angola continues to intensify its efforts to interrupt the transmission of dracunculiasis (Guinea worm disease), focusing on community surveillance, coordination among partners, and promoting sustainable access to safe drinking water. A joint mission by the Ministry of Health, the World Health Organization (WHO), the National Technical Committee for the Certification of Dracunculiasis Eradication (CTNCED), The Carter Center, and the Cunene Provincial Health Office assessed the progress made in the province and defined strategic priorities to support the national goal of certifying Angola as a disease-free country by 2030. During visits to the municipalities of Humbe and Cuanhama, the teams assessed the functioning of community surveillance, observed environmental conditions and the state of water sources, and met with local leaders and residents to emphasize the importance of early detection, including the timely reporting of rumors, infections, and suspected cases. The mission helped strengthen coordination among national, provincial, and municipal levels, promoting a more integrated and efficient response. This collaborative effort made it possible to identify operational needs,