The Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR), University of Ghana, commemorated World Malaria Day 2026 with a series of outreach, educational, and sensitization activities under the global theme, “Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can. Now We Must.”
Observed from 22nd to 24th April, the commemoration brought together researchers, health professionals, students, and community members, highlighting the continued burden of malaria and the need for sustained, collaborative public health action. The activities were organised across selected communities and institutions in line with the Institute’s mandate to translate research into impact.
Activities commenced with a malaria awareness campaign and medical screening exercise at Suhum, where residents were educated on preventive measures and provided with basic health screening services. This was followed by an educational outreach at St. Albans International School in Accra, where students and staff were engaged on malaria transmission, prevention, and the importance of early treatment. A sensitization walk was later held at Okponglo to further engage the public and reinforce key malaria prevention messages. The commemoration concluded with a webinar that provided a platform for knowledge sharing and discussions on ongoing efforts to combat the disease.
Speaking during the engagements, Prof. Linda Amoah, Senior Research Fellow at the Department of Immunology, indicated that malaria is not on the rise in Ghana, noting that ongoing interventions continue to drive the country towards elimination. She explained that although prevalence has reduced significantly, the disease persists and requires sustained attention.
Prof. Linda Amoah, Senior Research Fellow at the Department of Immunology addressing participants during NMIMR’s World Malara Day 2026 outreach activities.
She emphasised that malaria elimination requires collective responsibility, adding that expanding education and public awareness remains critical. “Malaria is treatable, curable, and preventable. No one should die from malaria if the right measures are taken,” she said, urging the public to make use of available preventive tools and seek early treatment.
Prof. Amoah further highlighted the role of partnerships in advancing malaria control, noting that research efforts are largely supported through external collaborations and funding, which remain essential in sustaining progress.
Participants of the outreach activities expressed appreciation to the NMIMR team for bringing the initiative to their communities and schools, noting that the engagements had enhanced their understanding of malaria prevention and the importance of early care.
The Institute reaffirmed its commitment to advancing malaria research and elimination strategies through collaboration, in line with global efforts to reduce the burden of the disease in Ghana and beyond.
Highlights from NMIMR’s commemoration of World Malaria Day 2026.
