The Minister of Public Health, Dr. Manaouda Malachie, officially launched Cameroon’s inaugural National Malaria Week, running from April 18 to 25, 2026.
This initiative, tied to the 19th World Malaria Day themed “Ending Malaria: It is possible now, let’s act now,” seeks to bolster collective mobilization and awareness. By utilizing roadshows, roundtables, and community outreach, the government aims to bridge the gap between prevention messages and the general population to curb the impact of this public health priority.
Despite a significant 37% reduction in mortality due to recent interventions, malaria remains a primary health threat in Cameroon, accounting for the highest rates of hospitalizations and deaths.
In 2025 alone, the country recorded nearly 2 million cases and over 1,100 deaths, with children under five and pregnant women being the most vulnerable groups. High-burden regions such as the North, Far-North, Littoral, and South-West continue to require intensive focus as the government strives to reverse these trends.
To address these challenges, the Government is implementing the National Malaria Strategic Plan 2024-2028, which targets a 75% reduction in morbidity and mortality. This multi-faceted strategy includes the distribution of insecticide-treated bed nets, the introduction of the malaria vaccine, and free healthcare for children under five.
However, the mission faces steep hurdles, including a 70% funding gap—totaling over 260 billion FCFA—alongside treatment resistance and frequent shortages of essential medical supplies.
During the commemoration at the Cameroon Red Cross banquet hall, the WHO Resident Representative highlighted that malaria elimination is now a matter of political will rather than technological capacity, noting that 44 countries have already achieved this milestone.
Dr. Manaouda Malachie concluded by calling for immediate, coordinated action from all sectors of society. He emphasized that with the tools now available, eliminating malaria in Cameroon is a reachable goal if the nation acts decisively and collectively.
