Health ministers from African nations bearing the highest burden of malaria convened today in Yaoundé, Cameroon, to pledge intensified efforts towards ending fatalities from the disease. Representing countries that account for a staggering 95% of global malaria deaths, these ministers committed to sustained, equitable action to confront the threat posed by malaria in the African region.
During the gathering, ministers signed a declaration vowing to provide stronger leadership and increased domestic funding for malaria control programs. They also pledged to invest in data technology, adhere to the latest technical guidance, and enhance malaria control efforts at both national and sub-national levels.
Furthermore, the ministers undertook to increase investments in the health sector, bolstering infrastructure, personnel, and program implementation. They emphasized the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration and committed to forging partnerships for funding, research, and innovation.
“This declaration reflects our shared commitment as nations and partners to protect our people from the devastating consequences of malaria. We will work together to ensure that this commitment is translated into action and impact,” said Hon. Manaouda Malachie, Cameroon’s Minister for Health.
The conference, co-hosted by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Government of Cameroon, brought together key stakeholders, including global malaria partners, funding agencies, scientists, and civil society organizations.
The meeting aimed to review progress and challenges in achieving the targets of the WHO global malaria strategy, discuss mitigation strategies and funding, agree on effective responses for accelerating malaria mortality reduction in Africa, and establish a roadmap for increased political commitment and societal engagement in malaria control.
Despite significant strides against malaria globally, progress has stalled since 2017, particularly in high-burden African countries. Factors contributing to this stagnation include humanitarian crises, low access to quality health services, climate change, and biological threats such as drug and insecticide resistance.
To reignite efforts to combat malaria, the WHO and the RBM Partnership to End Malaria launched the “High burden to high impact” approach in 2018. This targeted initiative aims to accelerate progress in countries hardest hit by malaria.
The declaration signed at today’s conference aligns with this approach, focusing on political will, strategic information, better guidance and policies, and coordinated national responses. With renewed urgency and commitment, the ministers expressed confidence in accelerating progress towards a malaria-free future for Africa.
To achieve this ambitious goal, robust commitment to malaria responses at all levels, increased funding, science-driven approaches, urgent action on the health impacts of climate change, and strong partnerships are essential. The WHO also emphasized the need to address delays in malaria program implementation.
As Africa continues its battle against malaria, the unity and determination displayed by health ministers signal a pivotal moment in the fight against this deadly disease.