Africa-Press – Gambia. The Executive Secretary of the African Media and Malaria Research Network (AMMREN) emphasized the critical role of communication in the fight against malaria, urging for increased investment in media engagement at the 75th Session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa (WHO RC75).
The event, held in Lusaka from 25th to 27th August 2025, brought together health leaders to address persistent public health challenges on the continent.
Dr. Charity Binka, AMMREN’s Executive Secretary, delivered a statement on August 26, stressing that achieving the 2030 malaria targets requires more than just scientific tools and political will. She highlighted that journalists are essential partners in this effort, as they help to amplify evidence-based messages, demystify new health innovations, such as vaccines, combat misinformation and disinformation, give voice to communities affected by the disease, and hold leaders accountable for their commitments.
The Executive Secretary underscored that without sustained communication, even the most effective scientific advancements are at risk of failure. AMMREN, a network of journalists and health advocates across Africa, is committed to bridging the gap between scientific research, health policy, and the public. The network believes that health interventions are most successful when communities are well-informed, trust the information, and actively participate in their implementation.
Represented at the session by Dr. Binka and Bernard Okebe, the Kenyan Chapter Coordinator, AMMREN called for greater investment in health communication as a central pillar of malaria programming. The organization advocated for new strategies to mobilize resources and build the capacity of the media to serve as effective partners in the ongoing effort to eliminate the disease.
“It is time to kick out this preventable disease,” she added, echoing the network’s commitment to a malaria-free Africa.
For More News And Analysis About Gambia Follow Africa-Press
