As the world marks World Malaria Day 2025, the African Media and Malaria Research Network (AMMREN) has issued a passionate appeal for renewed global commitment, investment, and innovation to eliminate malaria, particularly in Africa where the disease remains most deadly.
AMMREN is a network of African journalists and scientists who are working to help reduce the burden of malaria on the continent through activities and research solutions for policy decisions.
This year’s commemoration is being observed under the theme “Malaria Ends with Us: Reinvest. Reimagine. Reignite,” emphasizing the urgency to intensify global action toward malaria elimination by 2030.
In a statement signed by AMMREN’s Executive Secretary, Dr. Charity Binka, the network highlighted the critical role of the media in maintaining momentum in the fight against malaria and ensuring the disease remains a national and global priority.
“AMMREN believes that a well-informed media landscape can drive behavioral change, promote the adoption of preventive measures, and hold stakeholders accountable,” Dr. Binka stated. “As we navigate the challenges of funding cuts and emerging health threats, the role of the media becomes even more critical.”
According to the World Health Organization’s 2024 Annual Report, there were an estimated 263 million malaria cases and approximately 597,000 deaths globally in 2023. The African Region continues to bear the brunt, accounting for 95% of all cases and 96% of the deaths—most of which are among children under the age of five.
AMMREN is urging governments, development partners, researchers, the private sector, and the media to work collaboratively to meet the WHO Global Technical Strategy for Malaria targets, which include a 90% reduction in malaria cases and deaths and elimination in at least 35 countries by 2030.
The network reaffirmed its commitment to leveraging media advocacy to amplify community voices, spotlight scientific innovations, and demand accountability. Dr. Binka also called on journalists and media practitioners to increase coverage of malaria-related issues to mobilize political and community support for the fight against the disease.
“Let us all remember: Malaria ends with us,” the statement concluded.
World Malaria Day is observed every year on April 25 to raise awareness of the global efforts to control and eventually eliminate malaria. This year’s theme underscores the collective responsibility to reignite efforts and reimagine strategies to finally consign malaria to history.
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