Global leaders at the UN General Assembly are sounding the alarm on the urgent need for more funding to prevent a surge in malaria cases and deaths. Without immediate action, new projections suggest an additional 137 million malaria cases and up to 337,000 deaths could occur between 2027 and 2029.
The warning comes ahead of the 2025 Global Fund Replenishment, as leaders express concern over a “perfect storm” of challenges that could lead to a resurgence of the disease. Even if current funding levels are maintained, a significant increase in malaria cases and deaths is still likely due to growing threats, including drug resistance and climate change.
With 250 million annual malaria cases and over 600,000 deaths, mostly in impoverished regions, the World Health Organization reports that sustained efforts and funding are crucial. The Global Fund, which raises money in three-year cycles, is one of the main sources of malaria prevention funding.
New modeling from the Malaria Atlas Project warns that if the next replenishment cycle sees a decrease in resources, the world could face a significant malaria outbreak, especially in Africa. Leaders stress that boosting malaria funding is critical to preventing the spread of the disease and avoiding widespread economic and social consequences.
Dr. Michael Charles, CEO of the RBM Partnership to End Malaria, emphasized that without increased investment, vulnerable populations, particularly women and children in low-income countries, will suffer the most. He added that the fight against malaria must remain a global priority, especially in high-burden areas.
As resistance to insecticides and anti-malarial drugs grows, the cost of effective prevention measures rises, underscoring the need for innovative strategies and additional resources. With climate change and humanitarian crises exacerbating the situation, experts warn that time is running out to prevent a global malaria resurgence.
