Urgent Action Needed: Tackling the Malaria Crisis with Equity and Innovation
The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights the urgent need for equitable access to malaria interventions to combat a persistent global health threat. Since 2000, 2.2 billion malaria cases and 12.7 million deaths have been averted. However, the WHO African Region remains disproportionately affected, accounting for 95% of the 597,000 malaria deaths reported globally in 2023. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, emphasized, “No one should die of malaria,” urging investments and actions in high-burden regions.
While global efforts have yielded notable progress, with 44 countries and 1 territory certified malaria-free as of November 2024, challenges remain. Twenty-five malaria-endemic countries now report fewer than 10 cases annually, a significant leap from four countries in 2000. The WHO African Region has reduced its malaria mortality rate by 16% since 2015. Yet, at 52.4 deaths per 100,000, this rate is still double the 2030 target of 23 deaths per 100,000.
In a landmark move, health ministers from 11 African countries with the highest malaria burden signed a declaration in 2024, committing to sustainable, equitable reductions in malaria cases. Their pledge includes strengthening health systems and improving data-driven decision-making.
Innovative tools are boosting the fight against malaria. Seventeen countries have integrated malaria vaccines into childhood immunization programs, and new-generation insecticide-treated nets accounted for 78% of the 195 million nets delivered to sub-Saharan Africa in 2023. These advancements are expected to save thousands of young lives annually.
Despite progress, inadequate funding remains a barrier. Global funding for malaria control reached $4 billion in 2023—far below the $8.3 billion target. Health systems in malaria-endemic regions face additional challenges, including drug resistance, climate change, and social inequities that disproportionately impact pregnant women, children under five, and marginalized populations.
The WHO underscores the importance of equity-focused strategies, robust health data systems, and gender-inclusive approaches. Prioritizing primary healthcare and addressing social determinants of health are critical to bridging gaps in malaria care. “Equity, gender equality, and human rights must guide antimalarial innovation,” WHO emphasizes, as inclusive solutions remain key to ending malaria.
