Zambia Records Major Drop in Malaria Cases as Mortality Declines by 40%

Zambia has recorded major progress in its fight against malaria, with national case numbers falling from 11.5 million in 2023 to 9.5 million in 2024 – a 24 percent reduction. This translates to a drop in incidence from 403 cases per 1,000 population in 2023 to 305 per 1,000 in 2024.

Speaking during a press briefing to mark SADC Malaria Week, Minister of Health, Dr Elijah Muchima, revealed that malaria-related deaths have also dropped sharply. Mortality declined by 40 percent, from 8 deaths per 100,000 people in 2023 to 5.7 per 100,000 in 2024.

He noted that of the total reported cases, 16 percent occurred in children under the age of five, while 1 percent were recorded among pregnant women – groups considered highly vulnerable.

However, Dr Muchima cautioned that the country has seen a 16 percent rise in malaria cases in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. Despite this, mortality continues to fall, reducing from 4 deaths per 100,000 population in 2024 to 3 per 100,000 in 2025.

To curb new infections and sustain the gains made, Government has implemented several interventions. These include the introduction of the malaria vaccine under the Expanded Programme on Immunisation, ongoing Indoor Residual Spraying, and the nationwide distribution of Insecticide-Treated Nets planned for 2026.

The Ministry of Health has also trained and deployed more than 26,000 community health workers, each responsible for roughly 500 people. In 2024, 33 percent of all malaria cases were managed at community level, bringing essential services closer to households.

Dr Muchima stressed that evidence-based planning remains critical to elimination efforts. He launched the latest Malaria Indicator Survey Report, stating that such data helps the country track progress, guide policy and refine strategy. Zambia has consistently conducted the survey since 2006.

To support national efforts, the Minister urged the public to take simple preventive actions:

• Pregnant women should receive recommended malaria preventive medication during antenatal visits
• Every household should sleep under treated mosquito nets
• Communities are encouraged to cooperate with spray teams
• Anyone with malaria symptoms should seek testing and treatment immediately

SADC Malaria Week aims to reinforce regional commitment to eliminating malaria by 2030. Dr Muchima emphasised that Zambia’s progress demonstrates what unity can achieve.

“No mother, child, or family should lose a loved one to malaria,” he said.