29 April 2025 – A powerful message resonated through the hallowed halls of the UK Parliament: “It’s Time to Change the Story.” The reception to commemorate World Malaria Day 2025 brought together global health leaders, diplomats, parliamentarians, and civil society actors committed to ending one of the world’s deadliest yet preventable diseases. For Malawi, a high-burden country in sub-Saharan Africa, this event was more than symbolic — it was a clarion call for renewed action, funding, and partnership.

The event, hosted in collaboration with Malaria No More UK, the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Malaria and Neglected Tropical Diseases, and global health partners, served as a timely platform to celebrate progress, confront persistent challenges, and galvanise cross-sectoral momentum. Malawi’s delegation, represented by the Malawi High Commissioner in London, reaffirmed the country's unwavering commitment to eradicating malaria and accelerating universal health coverage.

Malawi’s Battle Against Malaria: Turning the Tide

Malawi has made significant strides in malaria control through sustained investments in insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), indoor residual spraying, and community-based health services. According to the latest WHO World Malaria Report, Malawi has reduced malaria mortality by over 30% in the last decade. However, the disease still accounts for nearly 30% of outpatient visits and remains a leading cause of death among children under five.

Speaking at the reception, Malawi’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Dr Thomas Bisika, underscored the critical role of international cooperation and domestic ownership:

“We are not powerless in the face of malaria. With targeted investments, innovation, and political will, we can change the trajectory — not just for Malawi, but for Africa.”

Changing the Narrative through Innovation and Equity

The 2025 theme, "It’s Time to Change the Story", could not be more timely. Malawi is pioneering the use of digital health tools to track outbreaks and improve case management. The country is also one of the early adopters of the R21 malaria vaccine, demonstrating national readiness to embrace cutting-edge solutions.

Malawi further advocates for malaria elimination to be framed not merely as a health goal but as a development and equity imperative. In alignment with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), ending malaria contributes to improved school attendance, economic productivity, and gender empowerment.

The Road Ahead: Partnerships, Resources, and Political Will

At the UK Parliament reception, donors and advocates echoed a shared vision: zero malaria is achievable within our lifetime — but only with sustained financing, local leadership, and accountability. Malawi joins other Commonwealth nations in calling for increased Global Fund replenishment, expanded access to new vaccines and treatments, and deeper community engagement.

As the world shifts from control to elimination, Malawi remains a vocal champion for leaving no one behind. With political resolve and global solidarity, the story of malaria can indeed be rewritten — from despair to hope, from burden to breakthrough.