21Apr 25
Last week, the 2nd Women in Malaria (WiM) Conference convened women and non-binary researchers for a two-day virtual event highlighting their contributions to the fight against malaria. I had the pleasure of attending this inspiring conference, dedicated to amplifying diverse voices in the field and showcasing groundbreaking research and innovations led by scientists from all over the globe.
Dr Dorothy Achu, World Health Organization (WHO), underscored the growing threat of climate change on malaria control efforts
At the opening plenary session, Dr Dorothy Achu, World Health Organization (WHO), underscored the “perfect storm” of challenges facing malaria control, particularly in the African region, which bears a disproportionately high share of the global burden of the disease. She highlighted key strategic shifts in the WHO’s regional response, which include moving beyond “business-as-usual” implementation models, to mainstreaming innovation and research for improved public health impact. Gene drive technologies were mentioned among the emerging solutions which could contribute to the fight against malaria. Fittingly, the theme of this year’s conference was “Innovate to end malaria”.
The conference featured a wide range of sessions covering key topics including drug-based strategies, epidemiology, immunology, surveillance, and vector control. A strong emphasis was placed on the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in tackling malaria. Speakers highlighted the urgent need for gender-inclusive leadership in malaria elimination, recognizing that empowering women across research, policy, and community work leads to more effective, equitable, and sustainable solutions.
Round table discussion: “What if women were leading the fight against malaria?” featuring panellists Rinki Deb, Vestergaard; Ingrid Etoke, Gates Foundation; Jackline Martin, Vestergaard; Elena Marbán Castro, FIND and Women in Global Health Spain; Corine Ngufor, CREC/LSHTM Collaborative Research Programme, and Anita Ghansah, University of Ghana
Some of the key actionable takeaways from the Women in Malaria (WiM) Conference included increasing women’s representation in malaria leadership through gender-balanced policies, leadership training, and mentorship programs. Addressing barriers to women’s career growth involves implementing family-friendly workplace policies, as well as ensuring equitable access to research funding. The conference also highlighted the importance of engaging men as allies by promoting shared caregiving responsibilities and active advocacy for women’s inclusion in decision-making.
The conference served as a networking platform connecting researchers, policymakers, and public health experts. It also actively supported career development through peer mentoring opportunities designed to empower women and non-binary researchers in the field.
Like many children and adults in Tanzania, I have fallen ill with malaria many times. I was fortunate enough to survive, but millions have not. As both a survivor and a perpetual victim of this scourge, I stand with countless women scientists determined to taking malaria down instead. The 2nd WiM Conference was a powerful reminder that this fight goes beyond science – it’s about people, equity, and bold action. Malaria is not invincible. With innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to empowering all voices, we can rewrite the future. How will you be part of making malaria history?
