Infectious diseases Fighting malaria

The Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) focuses its efforts on strengthening health systems in partner countries. Consequently, measures designed to tackle individual diseases, such as malaria, are embedded within comprehensive care strategies aimed at improving the general health situation of the population. To this end, Germany supports projects that promote access for all groups and sections of the population to the medicines and health care they need, including malaria prevention and treatment services.

At the multilateral level, Germany is, above all, a major contributor to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, and to Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. The German government has contributed over five billion euros to the Global Fund since its inception. German support was one of the factors that allowed the Fund to distribute some 227 million bednets in 2023 and provide care for 171 million people infected with malaria.

In October 2021, the world's first malaria vaccine was approved by the WHO. It is now being used to vaccinate children in areas heavily affected by malaria. Since October 2023, a second safe and effective malaria vaccine has been available, with additional candidates currently undergoing clinical trials. The world's first malaria vaccination campaign was launched in Cameroon in early 2024.

Various measures have proven effective in preventing malaria infections and treating the disease:

• Controlling mosquitoes that transfer the parasites
• Prevention of mosquito bites
• Treating infections with drugs

There is no “one-size-fits all solution” when it comes to malaria therapy and prevention. Rather, fighting malaria always demands a mix of methods tailored to each situation. Rapid diagnosis and effective medication, in addition to vaccination, are decisive for successful therapy, especially where children are concerned.

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