Kenya is making significant progress in combating malaria and is intensifying its efforts ahead of World Malaria Day.

Written by: Mohamed Ragab

Kenya has announced significant progress in combating malaria, with the incidence rate decreasing by approximately 5% between 2023 and 2025, while the rate declined. Spread From 8% to 6% over the past decade.

Deaths also decreased by 32% compared to the previous strategic cycle, reflecting improved effectiveness of health interventions and preventive programs.

Within the framework Preparations For World Malaria Day, health authorities organized a morning media meeting that brought together various stakeholders, with the aim of reviewing the latest developments, enhancing coordination among concerned parties, and emphasizing the vital role of the media in raising awareness and stimulating community participation in efforts to combat the disease.

New policy package 

The meeting saw the launch of four key policy documents aimed at improving malaria prevention and enhancing diagnostic, treatment and monitoring capabilities.

These documents included updated case management guidelines, biosafety standards for community-level rapid diagnostic testing, clinical guidance tools, and an integrated framework for implementing rapid diagnostic tests.

Officials stressed that achieving malaria eradication requires a comprehensive approach involving all members of society, emphasizing the important role of the media in raising public awareness of the dangers of the disease and methods of prevention, which contributes to supporting government efforts and reducing infection rates in the future.

These steps are part of a broader national strategy aimed at eliminating malaria once and for all, through strengthening partnerships, expanding health services, and ensuring access to diagnostic and treatment tools in various regions, especially for the most vulnerable groups.

What is malaria?

Malaria is a serious, life-threatening parasitic disease transmitted through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes, and is mainly found in tropical regions.

It causes flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, headache) due to the destruction of red blood cells. It can be prevented by avoiding mosquito bites and using medication, and recovery is possible if treated early.

Symptoms of the disease usually appear 7-30 days after the bite, and include high fever, chills, headache, fatigue, nausea, and in severe cases, seizures, difficulty breathing, or coma may occur. To prevent it, mosquito nets, insect repellent should be used, protective clothing should be worn, and preventive medications should be taken before traveling to endemic areas.