Africa Day 2022: The African scientists leading our research at Target Malaria
Posted 25
This Africa Day, we asked the Principal Investigators from our African partner institutions to reflect on the role of African science leading malaria innovations and research. 95% of malaria cases and 96% of malaria deaths are in Africa, and we wanted to take this opportunity to spotlight our researchers’ views on this topic.
“I want to use my experience to build a critical mass of scientists in Africa to join forces with me to fight malaria. My role is to build up the best medical entomology and vector control specialists here in Burkina Faso so that we can help reduce malaria transmission.”
Professor Abdoulaye Diabaté, Target Malaria Burkina Faso Principal Investigator
“Cabo Verde has achieved zero local malaria cases since 2018, with the goal of certification of elimination in 2023 by the WHO. The biggest challenge now is to maintain these gains. My goal is to contribute to the development of research and capacity building, and support to decision-makers to establish policies necessary to maintain zero local cases and prevent the reintroduction of malaria in Cabo Verde, thus contributing to the eradication of malaria in Africa.”
Dr. Adilson de Pina, Target Malaria Cabo Verde Principal Investigator
“Africa, the cradle of life, abounds in riches yet plagued with several challenges impeding the attainment of its full potential. Malaria continues to be a major health challenge on the continent but with the new African more determined than ever in embracing and taking ownership of scientific innovations in the fight against malaria, births hope in a future where these challenges are surmounted and its potential unleashed, bringing prosperity to its people and the global community.”
Dr. Fred Aboagye-Antwi, Target Malaria Ghana Principal Investigator
“Malaria is an issue of global importance, however, mostly affects Africa. Therefore, African scientists must be at the forefront of research, in multilateral collaboration, to provide adapted and accepted solutions to end this disease. With new technologies emerging, the role of African scientists in developing them becomes more crucial as this strengthens trust in affected communities.”
Dr. Mamadou Coulibaly, Target Malaria Mali Principal Investigator
“Malaria still exerts a huge economic and health toll across sub-Saharan Africa, and so we must not just wait for advances in malaria control innovations, but rather should be part of the pioneering efforts. Gene drive promises to control mosquito vectors in novel ways. As lead Target Malaria scientist, I am helping position the Uganda collaboration as a centre of knowledge and excellence for cutting-edge science, including gene drive research.”
Dr. Jonathan Kayondo, Target Malaria Uganda Principal Investigator
