Ghana has reduced malaria-related deaths by 97% over the past decade, marking one of the most significant public health successes in sub-Saharan Africa.
Between 2014 and 2024, outpatient cases declined by 3%, while hospital admissions linked to malaria dropped by 17%, according to data released during the 2025 World Malaria Day commemoration. Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh attributed the progress to the National Malaria Elimination Strategic Plan (2023–2028), which aims to halve malaria fatalities by 2028 and expand vaccine coverage to over 70% for initial doses.
Speaking through Ghana Health Service (GHS) Director-General Professor Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, Akandoh highlighted targeted interventions such as indoor residual spraying, distribution of insecticide-treated nets, and seasonal malaria chemoprevention. The strategy also prioritizes intermittent preventive treatment for pregnant women, enhanced case management, and the rollout of malaria vaccines. “We must sustain this momentum by inspiring action in every community,” Akandoh said, urging collective efforts to eliminate the disease.
This year’s World Malaria Day, themed “Malaria Ends With Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite,” emphasized grassroots mobilization alongside policy reforms. The Holy Child R/C Basic School in Tema West exemplified this approach, winning a national malaria quiz competition with prizes including educational technology tools.
Ghana’s success stems from data-driven strategies and collaboration among health workers, policymakers, and communities. Dr. Franklin Asiedu-Bekoe, Director of Public Health at GHS, reported that indoor residual spraying reached 53% coverage across 28 high-risk districts, while a recent mass campaign distributed over 19 million insecticide-treated nets. In 21 districts earmarked for elimination, malaria positivity rates fell from 20.9% to 16%, positioning them as models for integrated intervention.
The government directly funded programs in two districts, demonstrating national ownership of malaria eradication. “These results prove the power of partnership,” Asiedu-Bekoe said, noting that community engagement and precise resource allocation were critical to progress.
Ghana’s achievements reflect broader trends in malaria control across Africa, where countries increasingly combine traditional methods with innovation. The sharp decline in mortality underscores the effectiveness of sustained investment in healthcare infrastructure and preventive measures. However, challenges such as climate change, insecticide resistance, and vaccine accessibility threaten long-term gains.
As Ghana advances toward elimination, the focus shifts to maintaining funding, adapting to emerging threats, and ensuring equitable access to interventions. The integration of malaria vaccines into routine immunization programs could further solidify progress, offering hope for a malaria-free future. The nation’s journey highlights the importance of aligning political commitment, community action, and global partnerships to tackle one of the continent’s most persistent health challenges.
