East Africa Combats Malaria Together: A Regional Effort to Tackle Cross-Border Transmission
Kampala/Uganda
With malaria spreading across borders in East Africa, countries are stepping up to collaborate in their efforts to tackle the disease together.
Malaria does not recognize borders, and in East Africa, the fight against this deadly disease has become a regional effort. Countries like Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and South Sudan are working together to combat the spread of malaria across borders by sharing resources, knowledge, and treatment protocols.
Shared Malaria Hotspots Across Borders
Regions like the Lake Victoria Basin, Great Rift Valley, and the Murray River corridor see high cross-border mobility due to trade, migration, and tourism. This increases the risk of malaria transmission across countries, making it essential for nations to work together.
Recent outbreaks in the Lake Victoria region have shown how migrants and traders from Uganda and Tanzania can spread malaria between communities. Recognizing this, regional health authorities are strengthening surveillance systems and improving data sharing to better track the movement of cases across borders.
Collaborative Strategies for Control
East African nations are coordinating mosquito control measures, including joint efforts to distribute insecticide-treated nets and conduct indoor residual spraying. Moreover, cross-border teams of malaria experts are working together to improve diagnostics, treatment, and preventative measures. Through the East African Community (EAC), member states are planning to expand access to malaria vaccines and share the successes of R21/Matrix‑M as it continues its rollout.
Challenges and Opportunities
While collaboration is critical, there are significant challenges, including funding, logistical barriers, and inconsistent healthcare between countries. A coordinated regional response will require the continued support of international donors, such as the Global Fund and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, to ensure these countries have the resources needed to reduce malaria transmission.
As malaria continues to threaten public health in East Africa, cross-border collaboration is essential. With strong regional frameworks, shared responsibility, and innovation, East African countries can tackle this threat together and move closer to eradicating malaria in the region.
