Expected reduction in contributions by wealthy countries likely to cost millions of lives and billions in lost growth
Slashed contributions from wealthy countries to an anti-malaria fund could allow a resurgence of the disease, costing millions of lives and billions of pounds by the end of the decade, according to a new analysis.
The fight against malaria faces new threats, including extreme weather and humanitarian crises increasing the number of people exposed, and growing biological resistance to insecticides and drugs, the report warns.
Gareth Jenkins, of Malaria No More UK, said: “Cutting funding risks the deadliest resurgence we’ve ever seen.”
Analysts said the cost to sub-Saharan Africa would be substantial, and the region’s leaders have appealed to the G7 to maintain investment. They have also asked the private sector and high-net worth individuals to step in, saying better control of the disease would fuel economic growth and trade.
