Amid growing concerns over foreign aid reductions, African leaders have reaffirmed their commitment to tackling malaria by increasing domestic investments. As reported by the BMJ News, representatives from seven African nations gathered in Nairobi on 5 February to discuss strategies for bridging funding gaps, enhancing local pharmaceutical manufacturing, and mobilising private sector contributions.
The meeting, convened by the African Leaders Malaria Alliance (ALMA) and the End Malaria Councils and Funds, comes at a critical time following the US government’s 90-day freeze on foreign aid and uncertainty over future contributions to the Global Fund, which provides 62% of international funding for malaria programmes. Leaders emphasised the need for sustainable financing solutions to meet the World Health Organization’s 2030 malaria targets, while also addressing challenges such as climate change, drug and insecticide resistance, and humanitarian crises.
