Transmission dynamics and control issues of vector-borne diseases – focus on malaria, trypanosomiasis, and dengue fever: a review

Vector-borne diseases such as malaria, human African trypanosomiasis, and arboviral infections (dengue, chikungunya, Zika) remain significant public health challenges in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Community engagement in research is increasingly seen as crucial to the successful uptake of research findings and interventions. This study aims to review and synthesize community engagement efforts used in the last decade in the prevention and control of vector-borne diseases, particularly malaria, trypanosomiasis, and dengue fever in the DRC. This narrative review systematically searched PubMed for studies on malaria, trypanosomiasis, and dengue fever that engaged communities and local stakeholders in the DRC (2014–2024). From 79 retrieved articles, 10 met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed using narrative synthesis. The included studies reveal that participatory strategies such as vector control, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) interventions, and CHW programs are feasible and foster empowerment, though challenges like resource constraints and sociocultural barriers persist. Overall, sustained, context-sensitive community engagement is essential for effective malaria and HAT prevention and control in the DRC. Furthermore, key interventions including vector control, early diagnosis and treatment, and entomological and epidemiological surveillance are essential to curb transmission. However, challenges such as increasing vector resistance to insecticides, funding constraints, logistical difficulties in reaching remote areas, and lack of multisectoral coordination hamper progress. Strengthening national capacities through integrated, innovative, and sustainable approaches, alongside enhanced community involvement and local research, is critical to overcoming these obstacles. Sustained and coordinated commitment at all levels is necessary to reduce the health and socio-economic burden of vector-borne diseases and achieve long-term public health goals in the DRC.