By Bertha Badu Agyei/Harriet Kwakye
Accra, April 26, GNA – The African Media and Malaria Research Network (AMMREN), a non-governmental organization has called on stakeholders for a renewed commitment in eliminating malaria.
According to AMMREN, the theme for this year World Malaria Day “Malaria Ends with Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, reignite” was not just a slogan but a charge to galvanize efforts across borders.
Dr Charity Binka, Executive Secretary of AMMREN in a statement to mark the 2025 World Malaria Day demanded bold investments and renewed political will to accelerate the journey towards a malaria-free world.
“We must reinvest in proven tools, reimagine our approach to malaria control, and reignite political and community action to eliminate this disease.” She said.
The latest figures from the World Health Organization (WHO) 2024 annual Report paint a grim picture of an estimated 263 million malaria cases globally, leading to approximately 597,000 deaths.
The African region bore the heaviest burden, accounting for 95% of all cases and 96% of deaths and most of them were children under five.
The statement highlighted that the fight against malaria remained precarious despite the progress made over the years coupled with funding cuts and emerging global health threats and emphasized the need for sustained advocacy and accountability.
A key part of that advocacy laying the power of the media and AMMREN had therefore urged journalists, editors and media houses to step up coverage of malaria-related issues.
“A well-informed media can drive behavioral change, encourage the adoption of preventive practices, and ensure that malaria remains a priority on both national and global health agendas,” the statement read.
The media has a vital role to play in amplifying community voices, highlighting innovative solutions, and keeping pressure on decision-makers to act.
GNA
KOA