By Ibrahim S. Bangura
Freetown, April 23, 2025 – Sierra Leone has reaffirmed its dedication to eliminating malaria as the country joins the global community in commemorating World Malaria Day on April 24. This year’s theme, “Malaria Ends With Us: Reinvest. Reimagine. Reignite,” underscores the need for collective action, innovative approaches, and renewed determination to tackle the disease.
In anticipation of the day’s events, an official gathering was held at the Malaria Control Conference Hall in New England Ville. Harold Thomas, Risk Communication Lead and Health Education Programme Manager at the Ministry of Health, urged Sierra Leoneans to take ownership of the fight against malaria. “This theme calls on each and every one of us to take ownership,” he emphasized. “It challenges us to envision what more can be achieved, harness innovations, empower community leadership, and reignite political will to end malaria once and for all.”
Thomas acknowledged significant progress in combating malaria but cited challenges such as underfunded health systems, climate change-driven transmission shifts, and the growing threat of drug and insecticide resistance. “Malaria continues to claim approximately 600,000 lives globally each year, with most victims being children,” he highlighted. “A child as young as two can die within 72 hours if malaria is left untreated. This underscores the urgency of our mission.”
During the event, the media’s role in galvanizing public engagement and fostering accountability was also spotlighted. “Your role is not just to inform—but to inspire action,” Thomas told members of the press. “Thank you for being part of this fight.”
The urgency of malaria eradication in Sierra Leone was further underscored by Irene M. Sesay, Malaria in Pregnancy Lead at the National Malaria Control Programme (NMCP). She stressed that malaria remains the leading cause of illness and death in the country, with children under five and pregnant women most at risk. “Malaria is endemic with stable and perennial transmission throughout Sierra Leone,” Sesay stated, adding that over two million cases were reported in 2024 alone.
The NMCP’s National Malaria Elimination Strategic Plan (NMESP) 2021–2025 sets ambitious goals, including reducing malaria mortality and case incidence by 75% from 2015 levels and ensuring 90% of the population adopts at least three recommended preventive behaviors. The plan also focuses on strengthening surveillance, ensuring timely access to quality-assured malaria commodities, and improving resource mobilization and program performance.
Dr. Louisa Ganda, Technical Officer at the World Health Organization (WHO), said, “Malaria remains a major public health challenge,” she said. “While progress has been made, the current strategic plan will expire this year, and efforts are underway to expand it, ensuring no one is left behind.” She also noted regional targets for 2030, urging unity among programs and partners.
“As World Malaria Day approaches, the Ministry of Health calls on all citizens to adopt preventive measures,” Dr. Ganda emphasized. “Whether by sleeping under insecticide-treated nets, seeking early treatment, or supporting community initiatives, every action counts.”
With only months remaining to achieve the 2025 goals, Sierra Leone’s message to the world is resolute: Malaria Ends With Us.