On this year’s World Malaria Day, themed “Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can. Now We Must.”, the Ifakara Health Institute joins the global community in reaffirming our commitment to a malaria-free future.

For over 70 years, Ifakara has contributed to advancing malaria research, generating evidence, and supporting the development and deployment of life-saving interventions. Today, with effective tools such as improved vector control strategies, vaccines, and stronger data systems, we are closer than ever to ending malaria.

A special platform to check progress and plan moving forward

This year, we brought together partners, policymakers, researchers, and communities at the Ifakara Malaria Forum 2026—a platform that reinforced the urgent need to translate science into action. The discussions highlighted that while the tools are within reach, success now depends on sustained commitment, strengthened health systems, and collective effort.

The key message was clear: progress in malaria control and elimination can only be sustained through continued collaboration and strong partnerships across all stakeholders.

A look back at 70 years of research

Beyond the forum, we also shared powerful feature stories from communities, capturing real experiences from those most affected by malaria. These stories serve as a reminder that behind every statistic is a life—and that our work must remain grounded in the realities of the people we serve.

How mosquito ecology research is reshaping malaria control

Seven decades of innovation in the fight against malaria

Treated bed nets – The intervention that reshaped global malaria control

From trials to breakthroughs in the quest for a malaria vaccine

Shaping the evolution of life-saving malaria drugs

Now is the time to act with urgency and purpose. Ending malaria will require all of us—government, researchers, partners, and communities—working together to turn evidence into impact.