African leaders call for domestic financing to combat malaria

African leaders and health officials are calling for increased domestic financing and sustainable strategies to accelerate the elimination of malaria. During a high-level meeting held in New York on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly, leaders emphasized the need for multisectoral action and deeper collaboration to protect progress against the disease.

With Africa accounting for 94% of global malaria cases and 95% of deaths, officials warned that financing shortfalls, extreme weather, and insecticide resistance pose significant risks. Research suggests that a 30% reduction in malaria financing could result in 146 million additional cases and nearly 400,000 additional deaths by 2030.

Tanzanian Health Minister Mohamed Mchengerwa urged African nations to take greater responsibility for developing, funding, and ensuring access to essential tools. He highlighted the importance of local manufacturing, noting that Tanzania has already established production for insecticide-treated nets in Arusha and biological insecticides in Kibaha. The goal is to reduce reliance on imported technologies and international funding by building local capacity to produce health products within the communities that need them most.