Khadijah Aliyu Nigeria
Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire – On the sidelines of the Africa CEO Forum, Speak Up Africa, in partnership with the RBM Partnership to End Malaria, the African Leaders Malaria Alliance (ALMA), and Malaria No More UK, launched the Francophone chapter of the “Change the Story” campaign and a new report: “Change the Story, Save Lives: The Private Sector’s Role in Ending Malaria.”
With the Global Fund’s 8th Replenishment approaching and funding gaps widening, 2025 is seen as a critical year for catalyzing private sector engagement to accelerate malaria elimination efforts.
“This is your moment to co-invest for impact,” said Dr. Michael Adekunle Charles, CEO of the RBM Partnership.
Key Highlights from the Campaign and Report:
Urges private sector to:
Provide direct or in-kind support to national malaria programs
Contribute to the Global Fund’s 8th Replenishment
Join End Malaria Councils
Invest in the Voix EssentiELLEs Fund, which focuses on women-led, community-driven malaria elimination efforts
Aims to raise $4 million by 2030 for flexible, gender-focused malaria funding
“The private sector is a vital partner in Africa’s bold fight against malaria,” said Joy Phumaphi, Executive Secretary of ALMA.
Economic and Social Imperative:
Malaria disproportionately impacts women and girls, who are underrepresented in decision-making.
For every $1 invested in malaria control, up to $60 in economic return is generated.
A 2024 study estimates that a 90% reduction in malaria could boost Africa’s GDP by $126.9 billion by 2030.
“The private sector has a direct stake in malaria elimination,” said Côte d’Ivoire’s Health Minister Pierre N’gou Dimba.
Strategic Partnerships:
Speak Up Africa and Canal+ Côte d’Ivoire signed a new MOU, building on a 5-year collaboration contributing $1.5 million+ in support, including media airtime.
“Together, we are committed to changing the story to end malaria in Africa,” said Adama Koné, Director General of Canal+ Côte d’Ivoire.
