Nairobi, Kenya—The AU Commission in partnership with the African Leaders Malaria Alliance (ALMA) convened experts on malaria from various African Union (AU) Member States and other strategic partners to prepare and finalise the 2024 AU Malaria Progress Report as well as the draft 2024 AU Decision on Malaria Progress Report all of which are to be submitted for adoption to the 38th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly in February 2025. The event took place from 05 – 06 November in Nairobi, Kenya.
With 95% of global malaria cases and 97% of deaths concentrated in Africa, the stakes are higher than ever. The report delivers a clarion call to intensify efforts to meet the ambitious 2030 malaria elimination goals, recognising Cabo Verde and Egypt’s certification as malaria-free by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as a beacon of hope. The report provides an in-depth analysis of the continent’s progress, challenges, and strategic priorities in the battle against malaria.
Confronting the Perfect Storm
The report outlines the multiple converging threats jeopardising Africa’s malaria progress:
- Funding Deficits: An annual $6.3 billion is required by 2025 to stay on track with global malaria targets.
- Biological Threats: Resistance to insecticides and antimalarial drugs, alongside the rise of invasive mosquitoes, complicates intervention efforts.
- Climate Change: Shifting temperatures and extreme weather conditions are accelerating malaria transmission in previously unaffected regions.
- Humanitarian Crises: Conflicts, forced displacement, and fragile health systems exacerbate the disease’s impact, particularly in high-burden areas.
The “Big Push” Acceleration Plan
The report also underscores the need for urgent and transformative actions to eliminate malaria. Key recommendations include:
- Elevating Political Will: Engaging Heads of State to integrate malaria elimination into national and regional development frameworks.
- Innovative Technologies: Accelerating the adoption of malaria vaccines such as RTS,S and R21/Matrix-M, alongside next-generation mosquito nets and climate-resilient solutions.
- Enhanced Data Systems: Strengthening data collection and analytics to guide interventions effectively.
- Multisectoral Collaboration: Integrating malaria initiatives with broader health systems, education, agriculture, and climate resilience efforts.
Economic and Social Impact
Malaria elimination offers immense economic benefits, with potential GDP gains of $127 billion for Africa by 2030 and a $81 billion increase in international trade. The report highlights the extraordinary return on investment in malaria interventions, estimating a 40-to-1 benefit-cost ratio.
Spotlight on Achievements and Innovation
The 2024 African Union Malaria Progress Report celebrates significant milestones, including:
- Vaccine Rollouts: Implementation of RTS,S and R21/Matrix-M vaccines targeting 6.6 million children in 15 Member States.
- Local Manufacturing Breakthroughs: Nigeria’s WHO-prequalified antimalarial drug and Tanzania’s production of biolarvicides for mosquito control.
- Partnership-Driven Solutions: Establishment of End Malaria Councils and Funds to mobilise resources and galvanise collective action.
Looking Ahead
The report identifies 2025 as a decisive year and urges governments, donors, and partners to align their efforts with the AU’s malaria elimination goals. Through innovative interventions, strengthened partnerships, and sustained political commitment, Africa is poised to turn the tide against malaria and deliver on its promise of a healthier, more prosperous future.
The 2024 African Union Malaria Progress Report is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in addressing one of the continent’s most pressing public health challenges. ALMA’s leadership, alongside the AU and its partners, underscores the critical importance of maintaining momentum in the fight to eliminate malaria once and for all.ination across the continent.
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For further information, please contact:
Ms. Whitney Mwangi I Health Communication and Advocacy Specialist | Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, | African Union Commission | E-mail: WhitneyM@africa-union.org | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia |
Information and Communication Directorate, African Union Commission I E-mail: DIC@africa-union.org
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