The African Media and Malaria Research Network (AMMREN) participated in the 75th Session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa, held in Lusaka from 25–27 August 2025. Represented by Dr. Charity Binka, Executive Secretary, and Mr. Bernard Okebe, Kenyan Chapter Coordinator, AMMREN reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that the perspectives of scientists, journalists, and communities shape Africa’s health agenda, especially in the fight against malaria and the pursuit of better health for all.
As a recognised non-state actor of WHO-AFRO, AMMREN was granted the platform to deliver two official statements. In both interventions, we emphasised that malaria remains one of Africa’s most persistent public health challenges; claiming lives, limiting productivity, and perpetuating poverty. Achieving the 2030 malaria targets, we stressed, will depend not only on scientific tools and political commitment but also on the transformative power of the media as catalysts for global health promotion. As Dr. Binka noted: “Journalists amplify evidence-based messages, demystify innovations such as vaccines, and keep malaria high on the public agenda. Without strong, sustained communication, even the best scientific innovations risk falling short.”
AMMREN also commended WHO-AFRO’s bold vision of enabling one billion more people to enjoy better health and well-being. We called for stronger partnerships among governments, civil society, and the media, underscoring that health interventions succeed when communities understand, trust, and actively engage with them. We further urged greater investment in behavioural change communication to increase uptake of proven interventions such as vaccination, use of insecticide-treated nets, and timely treatment.
The high-level meeting brought together ministers of health, policymakers, development partners, and civil society representatives from 47 countries to shape Africa’s health priorities. Leaders focused on strengthening health systems, improving emergency preparedness, and accelerating progress on malaria, maternal and child health, and noncommunicable diseases. Delegates also adopted important resolutions on oral health, blood safety, and rehabilitation services; key steps toward improving quality of life across the continent. The 76th Regional Meeting of WHO Afro will be held in Addis Abba, Ethiopia.
AMMREN at the 75th WHO Africa Regional Committee Session
