Published: 16 June 2023

On this International Day of the African Child, the African Leaders Malaria Alliance (ALMA) joins the global community in shedding light on the challenges, needs, and rights of African children.

Despite being the future leaders and change-makers of the continent, many children across Africa are disproportionately affected by diseases and lack access to essential healthcare services. Malaria, for instance, continues to pose a significant threat, with children under the age of five accounting for about 80% of all malaria deaths in the region according to the World Health Organization’s World Malaria Report 2022. Shockingly, a child dies from malaria every minute of every day, despite the fact that malaria is both treatable and preventable. This staggering statistic serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for action.

In addition to malaria, Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) also cast a dark shadow over the lives of African children. These diseases steal childhoods, trapping children in pain, impairing growth, hindering learning, and perpetuating the cycle of poverty. NTDs affect millions of children living in rural areas, urban slums, and conflict zones, making them particularly vulnerable to the detrimental effects of these diseases. They miss school, limiting their educational opportunities and impeding their cognitive development. Moreover, NTDs impact not only the physical health but also the overall well-being and future prospects of African children.

It is imperative that we collectively address these, and other, health challenges and prioritize the well-being of African children. Investments in healthcare systems, access to preventive measures, and timely and effective treatment are essential to ensure that children receive the care they need to thrive. By providing comprehensive healthcare services and disease prevention programs, we empower African children to reach their full potential, contribute positively to their communities, and improve their overall livelihoods.

In addition to strengthening healthcare systems, key interventions are crucial in combating NTDs, malaria and improving reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health. Expanding access to health through community health workers, including provision of integrated community case management for children to address the biggest childhood killers including pneumonia, diarrhoea and malaria is critical. Mass Drug Administration programmes targeting both school and non-school going children, alongside efforts to enhance access to clean water, sanitation, vector control, and health education, are vital components of a comprehensive approach. By coordinating efforts and strengthening collaboration among stakeholders, we can effectively reduce the impact of NTDs on children and enhance their well-being.

On this International Day of the African Child, ALMA stands firm in its commitment to the Agenda 2063 goal of ensuring the health and well-being of Africa’s citizens. We recognize the importance of investing in quality healthcare services and expanding access to ensure that every individual receives the care they deserve. Through the ALMA supported scorecard tools, we will continue supporting AU Member States in generating reliable data for accountability and action, strengthening efforts against malaria, NTDs, and reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health (RMNCAH) interventions. Together, let us reaffirm our commitment to ending malaria and NTDs, ensuring that no child’s potential is stifled by preventable and treatable health conditions.

We also call upon governments, civil society organizations, the private sector, and international partners to prioritize the fight against malaria and Neglected Tropical Diseases. We urge increased investment in research, prevention, treatment, and capacity-building efforts to protect the future of African children. Collaboration and partnerships are essential to create sustainable and comprehensive strategies that will ensure every child’s right to a healthy and prosperous future.

Together, let us reaffirm our shared commitment to ensuring that no child’s potential is hindered by preventable and treatable health conditions. By investing in the health and well-being of African children today, we secure a brighter tomorrow for the entire continent.