South Africa targets malaria elimination

The Department of Health asserts that South Africa is on track to achieve malaria elimination status by 2028, as outlined in the National Malaria Elimination Strategic Plan.

Despite facing challenges such as heightened heatwaves exacerbated by climate change, with the potential to directly impact transmission and the burden of disease, the department remains confident in the country’s progress.

“This has the potential to also benefit the Southern African countries collectively on issues of trade, tourism, health, and economic growth,” stated the department.

Call for further action against malaria in South Africa

While progress has been made in reducing the burden of malaria in provinces such as Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal, the department believes further efforts are needed to curb local transmission.

South Africa on Thursday, 25 April, joined the global community in observing World Malaria Day to recognise global efforts to control malaria, reducing the burden of the disease and avoiding preventable deaths.

The Department of Health urged all stakeholders, including communities, healthcare professionals, civil society organisations, and international partners, to collaborate in intensifying the fight against malaria, aiming to foster a healthier and more equitable world for current and future generations.

Malaria, a preventable and curable life-threatening disease transmitted by a type of female mosquito called Anopheles, remains a significant global health concern.

Recorded cases

In 2022, an estimated 249 million new cases and approximately 608 000 deaths were reported, with Sub-Saharan Africa enduring the most of the burden.

In South Africa, 9795 cases and 106 deaths were reported in 2023.

“The government is committed to integrating the ethos of ensuring equal access to malaria prevention and treatment services for all with the principles of the National Health Insurance, which essentially has the objective of attaining Universal Health Coverage.”

Eliminating the disease requires sustainable resources

The department views eliminating malaria as an ambitious task requiring sustainable resources, collaboration with neighbouring countries including Botswana, Eswatini, Mozambique, Namibia, and Zimbabwe, evidence-based policies, strong partnerships, and a dedicated workforce.

“South Africa is working towards strengthening and harnessing its domestic expertise while collaborating with global partners.”

Last year, South Africa was amongst the countries that received global prestigious awards from the World Health Organisation (WHO) for their efforts to achieve important milestones towards malaria elimination.