Experts warn Africa could see 1.8m malaria deaths by 2025 without urgent action

Africa could see up to 1.8 million malaria-related deaths by 2025. This is if urgent actions are not taken. The 2024 World Malaria Report from the WHO states that malaria killed 600,000 people in 2023.

The report reveals that Africa has 94% of global malaria cases. It also accounts for 95% of malaria deaths. This means there are 13.7 deaths per 100,000 people exposed. Despite progress in prevention and treatment, malaria remains a leading cause of death in Africa.

At the launch of the Coalition of Parliamentarians to End Malaria in Accra, Dr. Michael Adekunle Charles spoke about community-led efforts. He is the CEO of the RBM Partnership to End Malaria.

He said, “When parliamentarians allocate funds, we must ensure they extend beyond health.” He stressed that decentralizing the fight against malaria is crucial. Leadership and accountability should return to local communities.

Ugandan Parliamentarian Santa Okot raised concerns about setbacks in malaria programs. She mentioned issues like inconsistent implementation and funding shortfalls.

She warned, “If funding is removed and our government does not act, we will go nowhere.”

The new coalition includes lawmakers from across Africa. They aim to eliminate malaria by 2030 through better legislation, funding, and accountability.