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dropped by 75% in southern Mozambique and approached
elimination in Eswatini and South Africa.

Building on this foundation, the SAMRC Malaria Research
Group (MRG) now monitors and evaluates malaria
reduction in border areas. Their work combines decades
of expertise, long-term data, and partnerships with local
communities to ensure that interventions are both effective
and sustainable. These efforts show that African-led
research and regional cooperation can achieve significant
public health outcomes.

Sustaining Progress

Malaria elimination is not a one-time effort; it requires
ongoing commitment from governments, health systems,
and communities. Continuous monitoring, innovation, and
adaptive strategies are needed to respond to evolving
challenges, such as vector resistance or climate impacts.
By focusing on evidence-based interventions, cross-border
coordination, and locally led research, South Africa and its
regional partners demonstrate how malaria elimination
is possible. Success depends on keeping communities
engaged, maintaining political will, and integrating
scientific knowledge into everyday policy and practice. The
lessons learned provide a model for other regions facing
persistent infectious disease challenges, highlighting the
value of African leadership in public health.

THE COMMUNITY ISSUE 29