During the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), leaders from Africa came together to address the urgent need for a collective effort against a “Perfect Storm” of crises threatening progress in the fight against malaria. The African Leaders Malaria Alliance (ALMA) hosted a high-level discussion highlighting the challenges and the need to accelerate towards malaria elimination.
The leaders identified major obstacles contributing to the crisis, such as financial deficits, climate change impacts, and resistance to insecticides and antimalarials. Without increased funding and resources, there could be a significant rise in malaria cases and deaths in the coming years.
President Umaro Sissoco Embaló stressed the importance of closing the financial gap to prevent a surge in malaria deaths. The leaders also emphasized the need for successful Global Fund replenishment in 2025 and continued prioritization of malaria financing within global health programs.
They called for a multi-sectoral approach, involving collaborations with industries like agriculture, environment, mining, and tourism. This holistic strategy aims to achieve malaria elimination, enhance pandemic preparedness, and strengthen health systems.
Innovative financing mechanisms, public-private partnerships, and the establishment of National End Malaria and NTD Councils were highlighted as vital for mobilizing resources and sustaining advocacy campaigns. AU Member States were urged to prioritize health and secure funding from international organizations like the World Bank and Gavi.
The session stressed the importance of strategic information, accountability mechanisms, and effective allocation of resources to maximize impact. Ending malaria, along with achieving HIV/AIDS and TB targets in Africa by 2030, will contribute to reducing the continent’s health burden and advancing universal health goals.
For inquiries, please contact:
Tawanda Chisango
Chief of Communications
African Leaders Malaria Alliance
TChisango@alma2030.org