The World Health Organization (WHO) has validated Tunisia as having eliminated trachoma as a public health problem, making it the 31st country globally to achieve the milestone.
The announcement was made on Thursday by the global health body, which described the achievement as a significant step in the fight against neglected tropical diseases.
According to WHO, Tunisia’s success demonstrates the impact of sustained investment in primary healthcare, sanitation and disease prevention programmes.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus congratulated Tunisia on the achievement, describing it as proof that long-term political commitment and strong healthcare systems can defeat preventable infectious diseases.
He said eliminating trachoma showed “what long-term political commitment, strong primary health care and teamwork can do,” adding that Tunisia had proven the world’s leading infectious cause of blindness could be overcome.
Trachoma is an infectious eye disease closely linked to poor access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene. The disease historically affected vulnerable communities across Tunisia, especially in the southern parts of the country, where it was once endemic among a large section of the population.
WHO said Tunisia implemented the recommended SAFE strategy over several decades. The programme includes surgery for advanced cases, antibiotics to treat infection, facial cleanliness campaigns and environmental improvements aimed at expanding access to water and sanitation.
The country also integrated eye care services into primary healthcare and school health programmes while carrying out nationwide screening and treatment campaigns.
WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean Hanan Balkhy described the development as a major public health achievement driven by consistent national commitment over many years.
Tunisia’s Minister of Health, Mustapha Ferjani, said the milestone reflected decades of coordinated national efforts and the dedication of healthcare workers and local communities.
He added that Tunisia remained committed to protecting future generations and sustaining the gains already achieved.
