The World Health Organisation (WHO) has revealed that malaria claimed the lives of 597,000 people globally in 2023, with the majority of fatalities recorded in Africa.
In its latest World Malaria Report, released on Wednesday, the global health body disclosed that there were an estimated 263 million cases of malaria last year, representing an increase of 11 million cases compared to 2022. However, the death toll remained relatively unchanged from the previous year.
“Approximately 95% of the deaths occurred in the WHO African Region, where many at risk still lack access to the services they need to prevent, detect, and treat the disease,” the report noted.
Despite significant progress since 2000, including the prevention of 2.2 billion malaria cases and 12.7 million deaths, the disease remains a persistent global health challenge. Since 2015, the WHO African Region has achieved a 16% reduction in its malaria mortality rate.
However, the estimated 2023 mortality rate of 52.4 deaths per 100,000 population at risk still exceeds the target of 23 deaths per 100,000 population set under the Global Technical Strategy for Malaria 2016-2030.
The report highlighted that as of November 2024, 44 countries and one territory had been certified malaria-free by WHO, with 25 malaria-endemic countries reporting fewer than 10 cases annually—a significant increase from just four countries in 2000.
In an effort to combat malaria’s devastating toll, Ministers of Health from 11 high-burden African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, and Tanzania, signed a declaration earlier this year.
The agreement aims to reduce the disease burden sustainably by strengthening health systems, enhancing coordination, and employing strategic use of data to address root causes.
Speaking on the report, WHO Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, stressed the urgent need for more investments to curb the disease’s threat in Africa.
“No one should die of malaria; yet the disease continues to disproportionately harm people living in the African region, especially young children and pregnant women.
An expanded package of lifesaving tools now offers better protection against the disease, but stepped-up investments and action in high-burden African countries are needed to curb the threat,” he said.
While global efforts have averted millions of cases and deaths, the report underscores the need for accelerated progress to meet global malaria targets.
For Africa, which bears the brunt of the disease, expanding access to preventive and treatment services remains a critical priority.
Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
