The African Union has called for renewed investment and stronger cooperation to accelerate efforts to eliminate malaria, warning that the disease continues to impose a disproportionate burden on the continent.
The AU Commissioner for Health, Ambassador Amma Twum-Amoah, said Africa accounts for approximately 94 per cent of global malaria cases and 95 per cent of malaria-related deaths.
She made the disclosure at the African Union Extraordinary Health Summit in Accra on Tuesday, July 21, 2026.
Ambassador Twum-Amoah said the statistics reflected the severe human and economic cost of malaria, particularly for children under five and vulnerable families.
“Africa carries approximately 94% of global malaria cases and 95% of malaria deaths. Behind these figures are children who never reach their fifth birthday, families pushed deeper into poverty, and economies deprived of human potential,” she said.
She said the continent’s malaria burden should serve as a call for urgent and sustained action from governments, development partners and other stakeholders.
Ambassador Twum-Amoah urged African countries to strengthen their commitment to malaria control, increase investments in health and deepen collaboration to address persistent weaknesses in healthcare delivery.
The AU Commissioner said stronger health systems would be essential not only to tackle malaria but also to improve Africa’s preparedness for emerging and future public health threats.
The Extraordinary Health Summit has brought together health leaders, policymakers and other stakeholders to deliberate on strategies for strengthening healthcare systems and improving health outcomes across the continent.
The discussions are expected to focus on coordinated approaches to addressing Africa’s major health challenges and building more resilient public health systems.
