Ghana’s fight against malaria has received a major boost after the Ghana Health Service (GHS), through the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP), hosted a high-level UK parliamentary delegation on a week-long learning and advocacy mission from July 28 to August 2.
Facilitated by Malaria No More UK, the Innovative Vector Control Consortium (IVCC), and Zero Malaria Britain, the visit highlighted Ghana’s achievements and the need for sustained global partnerships to meet its ambitious elimination goals.
Receiving the delegation, Dr Caroline Reindorf Amissah, Acting Deputy Director-General of GHS, welcomed UK MPs Wendy Chamberlain, Kim Johnson, and Tan Dhesi, alongside global malaria advocates, and reaffirmed Ghana’s leadership role in malaria prevention.
Presenting Ghana’s progress, Dr Hilarious Abiwu, Acting Programme Manager of NMEP, revealed that malaria deaths dropped by 97%, from 2,137 in 2015 to just 74 in 2024, while parasite prevalence reduced from 27.5% to 8.6% over the last decade.
“Ghana became the first country globally to introduce both the RTS,S and R21 vaccines, protecting millions of children,” Dr Abiwu said.
“But our progress is fragile. We face a $78 million funding gap, growing drug and insecticide resistance, and reduced donor support. Zero malaria is within reach only if we act together.”
During a courtesy call on the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the MPs were briefed on Ghana’s National Malaria Elimination Strategic Plan (2024–2028), which targets a 90% reduction in deaths and elimination in 21 districts by 2028.
Mr Akandoh reaffirmed Ghana’s leadership; “Ghana’s journey from control to elimination reflects true partnership, science, and political will. With domestic investments and continued international solidarity, zero malaria is within reach.”
