In a gathering in Cameroon’s capital Yaoundé, various stakeholders pledged to end malaria deaths, recognizing the current tools and systems available. This declaration comes amidst a significant surge in malaria cases globally, especially in Africa.
Current Malaria Situation
- Globally, malaria cases rose from 233 million in 2019 to 249 million in 2022.
- Africa witnessed a surge from 218 million to 233 million cases during the same period.
- Africa remains the epicenter of the malaria crisis, accounting for 94% of global cases and 95% of global malaria-related deaths.
Participants and High-Burden Countries
- Health ministers from 11 African countries participated, which bear the highest burden of malaria infections and deaths.
- These countries account for more than 70% of the global malaria burden.
Commitments in the Yaoundé Declaration
- Health ministers declared an unwavering commitment to fight malaria.
- They emphasized the urgency to address the root causes of stagnation.
- Pledged to amplify investments in health sector infrastructure, personnel capacity, and program implementation.
- Aimed to foster multi-sectoral collaboration and strategic partnerships.
Evaluation and Challenges
- While the declaration signifies political will, experts emphasize the need for accompanying actions.
- The African Union aims to control and eliminate malaria by 2030.
- Progress has been insufficient, with significant financial gaps and targets not being met.
Recommendations
- Urgent action and increased funding are necessary to sustain basic malaria services and progress towards elimination.
- Additional funding is needed for climate adaptation in the health sector.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with Answers:
- What was the focus of the Yaoundé Declaration on Malaria?
- a) Ending all infectious diseases
- b) Reducing malaria deaths
- c) Eradicating mosquitoes
- d) Improving sanitation in African countries
- Answer: b) Reducing malaria deaths
- Which region bears the highest burden of malaria cases and deaths?
- a) Europe
- b) Asia
- c) Africa
- d) North America
- Answer: c) Africa
- How many African countries’ health ministers participated in the Yaoundé conference?
- a) 5
- b) 7
- c) 11
- d) 15
- Answer: c) 11
- What is emphasized as necessary alongside political will in the fight against malaria?
- a) Strategic planning
- b) Financial investments
- c) Developing new medicines
- d) Building more hospitals
- Answer: b) Financial investments
- What is the target year set by the African Union for controlling and eliminating malaria?
- a) 2025
- b) 2030
- c) 2040
- d) 2050
- Answer: b) 2030