African health ministers vowed to ramp up efforts to eradicate malaria, a disease responsible for 95% of global deaths from the illness.
The commitment came at a recent ministers’ meeting co-hosted by the World Health Organization (WHO) and Cameroon’s government. Ministers signed a declaration pledging to “sustainably and equitably address the threat of malaria in the African region.”
According to WHO, 11 African countries carry roughly 70% of the global malaria burden. These nations, including Burkina Faso, Cameroon, and Nigeria, have seen setbacks in malaria control since 2017.
Factors hindering progress include weak healthcare systems, limited access to quality medical services, climate change, and inadequate funding. In 2022, only half of the required budget for global malaria response was available.
Malaria cases globally surged in 2022 compared to pre-pandemic levels. Africa shouldered the brunt, with cases rising from 218 million in 2019 to 233 million in 2022. The region also accounted for 94% of global malaria cases and an estimated 580,000 deaths in 2022.
WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus acknowledged prior progress but highlighted the stagnation since 2017, exacerbated by the pandemic and funding shortfalls. “With strong leadership and commitment from partners,” Ghebreyesus said, “we can change this story for Africa.”
The ministerial declaration outlines actions including increased domestic funding, investment in data technology, and implementing the latest malaria control strategies. It also emphasizes bolstering healthcare infrastructure and fostering partnerships for financing and innovation.
Cameroon’s Health Minister Manaouda Malachie said the agreement reflects a shared commitment “to protect our people from malaria’s devastating consequences.”
WHO’s “High burden to high impact” approach, launched in 2018, targets countries hardest hit by malaria. The Yaounde declaration aligns with this strategy, focusing on political will, data-driven action, improved policies, and a unified national response.
WHO Regional Director for Africa Matshidiso Moeti emphasized the human cost of malaria, particularly child deaths. “We welcome this declaration,” Moeti said, “demonstrating renewed urgency to achieve a malaria-free future.”
WHO recommends robust malaria responses at all levels, increased funding, and leveraging science and data. The agency also stresses tackling the health impacts of climate change and fostering strong partnerships for a coordinated response.
