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Abstract Background: Solving the problem of malaria requires a highly skilled workforce with robust infrastructure, financial backing and sound program management coordinated by a strategic plan. Here the capacity of National Malaria Control Programs (NMCPs) was analysed to identify the strengths and weaknesses underpinning implementation of vector surveillance and control activities by the core elements of program capacity, being strategic frameworks, financing, human resources, logistics and infrastructure, and information systems. Results: Across nearly every country surveyed, the vector surveillance programs were hampered by a lack of capacity and capability. Only 8 % of NMCPs reported having sufficient capacity to implement vector surveillance. In contrast, 57 %, 56 % and 28 % of NMCPs had the capacity to implement long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs), indoor residual spraying (IRS) and larval source management (LSM) activities, respectively. Largely underlying this was a lack of up-to-date strategic plans that prioritise vector surveillance and include frameworks for decision making and action. Conclusions: Strategic planning and a lack of well-trained entomologists heavily hamper vector surveillance. Countries on the path to elimination generally had more operational/field staff compared to countries at the stage of control, and also were more likely to have an established system for staff training and capacity building. It is unlikely that controlling countries will make significant progress unless huge investments also go towards increasing the number and capacity of programmatic staff.