Health ministers from African countries, bearing the brunt of malaria deaths globally, convened in Yaoundé, Cameroon, to commit to intensified efforts to eliminate malaria-related fatalities. This landmark gathering, co-hosted by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Government of Cameroon, witnessed the signing of a declaration aimed at bolstering leadership, funding, and technical guidance for malaria control programs across the continent.

The declaration underscores a collective commitment to strengthen health systems, enhance multi-sectoral collaboration, and forge partnerships to combat malaria effectively. Ministers pledged to allocate increased domestic funding and leverage data technology to advance malaria control and elimination efforts at national and sub-national levels.

The African region, home to 11 countries accounting for approximately 70% of global malaria burden, faces numerous challenges including humanitarian crises, climate change, and insecticide resistance. Despite significant progress in recent decades, malaria cases surged in 2022, with Africa bearing the brunt of the disease burden.

Hon Manaouda Malachie, Minister for Health of Cameroon, affirmed the commitment of nations and partners to translate the declaration into impactful action. Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, highlighted the urgency of political leadership and broad coalition partnerships to overcome critical funding and access gaps exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Aligned with the WHO’s “High burden to high impact” approach, the declaration underscores four pillars: political will, strategic information, better guidance, and a coordinated national response. Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, emphasized the importance of renewed commitment and urgency to accelerate progress towards a malaria-free future.

To reignite progress against malaria, WHO advocates for robust commitment, increased funding, science-driven responses, and strengthened partnerships. Urgent action is needed to address delays in malaria program implementation and mitigate the devastating impact of this preventable disease on communities across Africa.