By Job Okoth
African countries are resorting to mapping, smart repellents and mass eradication in their fight against tsetse flies, responsible for the spread of sleeping sickness (Trypanosomiasis).
At the 37th International Scientific Council for Trypanosomiasis Research and Control (ISCTRC), scientists demonstrated different approaches working in their countries.
Presenting Ethiopia’s progress, Bekele Lema, a researcher on tsetse flies, revealed that his country has developed an atlas on trypanosomiasis. “This atlas provides comprehensive national information on disease distribution and vectors, giving crucial evidence to plan surveillance and control activities,” he said.
The first edition of the National Atlas of Animal Trypanosomiasis was published in 2022, with a second edition already underway. The updated data, covering 2010–2024, will guide future interventions and monitoring.
Kenya showcased a breakthrough in vector control technology. Dr. Benson Wachira, a lecturer at Pwani University in Kilifi, detailed research on beta-cyclodextrin nano-encapsulation, a method that protects repellent molecules and controls their release.
“We achieved about 75% encapsulation efficiency and reduced cattle-fly interaction by 95%,” he reported, emphasizing that the innovation offers extended protection and minimizes chemical losses in harsh field conditions.
From Zimbabwe, Madhumira Liberty, Department of Tsetse Control Services, reported strong progress under a Project that targets tsetse eradication in Matusadona National Park and surrounding communal areas. Using ground spraying, insecticide-treated targets, and cattle dipping, the project reduced tsetse populations by 97.8%. “Area-wide integrated pest management is critical,” Liberty warned, noting that re-invasion pressure from untreated zones remains a challenge.
Virtual contributions also added a data-driven perspective. Dr. Karla Rascon-Garcia, an epidemiologist, presented a meta-analysis of tsetse fly densities in Uganda, based on over 3,000 records but narrowed to 42 quality studies. She urged researchers to record and report species data consistently, saying, “Even if it’s not your primary goal, it improves the reliability of future maps and interventions.”
With mapping, technology, and field operations converging, today’s session underscored Africa’s shift toward integrated, science-led control of trypanosomiasis. The call from researchers was clear: keep data updated, invest in innovations, and work across borders to ensure gains are not lost to re-invasion.
