Sri Lanka Marks a Decade as Malaria-Free Country

By the Editorial Team · Friday, September 11, 2026

Sri Lanka commemorated ten years since the WHO declared it free of indigenous malaria transmission, maintaining this status through ongoing surveillance and prevention efforts. This milestone highlights the country's effective public health strategies and serves as a model for disease elimination in the South-East Asia region.

Sri Lanka has marked a decade since the World Health Organization (WHO) certified the country as malaria-free, highlighting a sustained effort to prevent the resurgence of the disease. The certification, initially awarded in 2016, recognized the elimination of indigenous transmission of all human malaria parasites across the nation.

During the 79th Session of the WHO Regional Committee for South-East Asia, Sri Lanka received acknowledgment for maintaining its malaria-free status through continuous national commitment and robust surveillance measures. These efforts have been critical in ensuring the disease does not re-establish within the country.

In addition to the malaria milestone, Sri Lanka was also recognized alongside eight other regional members for sustaining the elimination of maternal and neonatal tetanus for ten years following initial validation. These achievements underscore the country's broader public health progress and ongoing dedication to disease prevention and control.

Sri Lanka’s success serves as a significant example within the South-East Asia region, demonstrating the impact of coordinated health strategies and international partnerships in combating communicable diseases. The WHO’s acknowledgment during this regional forum reflects continued support for countries striving to maintain and build upon public health gains.

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