Advancements in Malaria Control: The Role of Science and Leadership

May 3, 2026

83 min

May 3, 2026 09:31

Science can accelerate malaria control — with the right leadership

## The Current State of Malaria Control

Global efforts to control malaria have faced significant challenges, with political will being a major factor. In 2025, funding for malaria programs fell short, reaching less than half of the global target. This funding gap has coincided with rising malaria incidence and mortality rates, with deaths increasing from 597,000 in 2023 to approximately 610,000 in 2024.

## Emerging Challenges

Climate change is expanding malaria transmission to new areas, while resistance to artemisinin-based therapies is spreading in East Africa. Eritrea, Rwanda, Uganda, and Tanzania have confirmed partial resistance, with suspicions in Ethiopia, Sudan, Namibia, and Zambia. The African region remains the most affected, accounting for 94% of global cases and 95% of deaths in 2024.

## Scientific Breakthroughs

### Vaccines

Malaria vaccines offer hope, with the RTS,S pilot program reducing child mortality by 13% and severe malaria by 30% in Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi. The R21 vaccine has shown high efficacy in trials, highlighting the potential of vaccines in malaria control.

### Drug Development

New drugs like GanLum are in advanced trials, showing a 97.4% cure rate, providing an alternative to combat artemisinin resistance.

### Artificial Intelligence

AI is transforming malaria diagnostics and health system optimization. A trial in Ethiopia demonstrated AI's effectiveness, achieving 100% accuracy in identifying malaria cases and improving prescription practices.

## The Path Forward

To accelerate progress, coordinated policy actions and system-level interventions are essential. The WHO's Big Push advocacy framework emphasizes the role of communities, civil society, and the private sector in driving change. Strengthening primary healthcare is crucial to delivering these advancements effectively. Collaboration and sustained commitment are vital to achieving malaria control goals.

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