Understanding Cholera Dynamics in African Countries with Persistent Outbreaks: A Mathematical Modelling Approach

Background: Cholera, caused by Vibrio cholerae, is a global health challenge, spreading through water in areas lacking clean water and sanitation. Since 2021, the reemergence of cholera cases has increased significantly in endemic regions in Africa. In particular, the continent experienced severe outbreaks between 2022 and 2024 due to floods, droughts, and cyclones, which have placed additional strain on healthcare systems. Objective: This study aims to investigate the dynamics of cholera outbreaks in eight African countries using mathematical modeling and machine learning, and provide insights for public health decision making. In addition, the study seeks to provide information on cholera outbreaks and management across the selected countries, identify key drivers of outbreak intensity, and propose targeted intervention strategies. Methods: A compartmentalized epidemiological model with indirect transmission routes is analyzed for cholera dynamics in eight African countries with persistent outbreaks. The key parameters and initial values of the model’s variables were estimated using a Bayesian framework. We assessed some outcomes such as the reproduction number, R 0 ”, outbreak peak duration and size. Moreover, environmental and socioeconomic data were used in hierarchical clustering to group countries by outbreak characteristics. Results: Based on our model results, the median basic reproduction number (R 0) across the endemic countries was 2.0 (SD : 0.454), which ranges from 1.41 in Zimbabwe to 2.80 in Mozambique. Furthermore, the results of the sensitivity analysis emphasized the significance of the maximum infection rate and the bacteria shedding rate in driving cholera outbreaks across the endemic regions in Africa. Hierarchical clustering revealed three distinct groups of countries based on outbreak dynamics and socioeconomic indicators: the chronic sanitation issues cluster (Somalia, Cameroon, and Comoros); the economic and infrastructure challenges cluster (Sudan, Zimbabwe, and Zambia); and the natural disaster cluster (Malawi and Mozambique). Conclusion: This study highlights the drivers of cholera outbreaks across African countries, emphasizing the need for tailored interventions that consider underlying socio-demographic and environmental vulnerabilities. The findings underscore the importance of integrating data-driven approaches into cholera preparedness and response efforts to mitigate its impact.