Slashed funding from wealthy countries to fight malaria could cause a deadly resurgence, killing millions and costing billions by 2030, according to a new report.
The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB and Malaria provides nearly 60% of international malaria funding, including mosquito nets and preventive drugs. Researchers warned that if donations drop by 20%, there could be 33 million extra malaria cases, 82,000 more deaths, and $5.14 billion lost GDP in sub-Saharan Africa.
If funding collapses entirely, the consequences would be even worse: 525 million additional cases, 990,000 deaths, and $83 billion in lost economic output. About 750,000 of the deaths would be children under five, representing a potential “loss of a generation to malaria,” the report said.
African leaders are appealing to the G7, the private sector, and high-net-worth individuals to maintain or increase contributions. Joy Phumaphi of the African Leaders Malaria Alliance said African countries are stepping up domestic budgets but cannot fight malaria alone. “All of us need to be part of the end story of malaria,” she said.
Germany recently pledged $1 billion to the Global Fund, 23% less than its previous commitment. The UK is reportedly considering a 20% cut, although no final decision has been made.
The report emphasizes the link between malaria control and economic growth. If the Global Fund reaches its full $18 billion goal, there could be 865 million fewer cases, 1.86 million fewer deaths, and a $230 billion boost to GDP.
Rising biological resistance to insecticides and anti-malarial drugs, extreme weather, and humanitarian crises are adding to the challenges. Analysts warn that cutting funding now risks the deadliest malaria resurgence ever seen.
Nigerian businessman Aliko Dangote urged the private sector to fill the gap, saying malaria is “not just a health crisis; it is an $83 billion brake on Africa’s growth and enterprise.”
The report highlights that malaria’s economic impact goes beyond healthcare, affecting schooling, worker productivity, tourism, and agriculture. Without urgent action, millions more could fall victim to the disease, undermining both public health and economic development across Africa.
