Trypanosoma evansi is an extracellular parasite, found in blood and tissues, mainly causing anaemia, immune depression and central nervous system disorders. Contrary to other African trypanosomes, T. evansi is adapted to mechanical transmission and thus, presents a worldwide distribution. This review summarizes the epidemiological data about T. evansi from its origins to the latest developments, as its addition in 2008 to the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) listed diseases and other diseases of importance to International Trade. This article puts emphasis on the need for a coordinated epidemiological control strategy and research for improving diagnostic and control tools.