Senegal confirms its progress in the fight against malaria with significantly improved indicators. According to the National Malaria Control Program, morbidity has fallen from nearly 23 cases per 1,000 inhabitants in 2024 to approximately 12 cases per 1,000 inhabitants in 2025, representing a significant decrease in just one year.

Mortality from the disease follows the same trend. The number of deaths fell from 314 in 2024 to less than 200 in 2025, reflecting the effectiveness of the strategies implemented at the national level.

These results are the fruit of strengthened preventive and curative interventions, including chemoprevention of seasonal malaria, intermittent preventive treatment for pregnant women, and increased use of insecticide-treated bed nets.

To these tools is now added the malaria vaccine, whose gradual introduction is supported by the OPT-MVAC project. Led by the Iba Der Thiam University of Thiès, this regional program brings together 14 countries in West and Central Africa and aims to improve the implementation and acceptance of the vaccine in expanded immunization programs.

For health authorities, the arrival of this new tool represents a major turning point. It will strengthen the existing system and accelerate the reduction of transmission, particularly in areas with strong seasonal fluctuations.

In parallel, research and innovation play a central role. The work carried out by universities and technical partners helps to adapt strategies to local realities, particularly in terms of vaccination coverage, monitoring of effects and community support.

The annual meeting of the OPT-MVAC consortium, which brings together experts and decision-makers from partner countries, is part of this dynamic. It provides a forum for exchanging experiences, identifying challenges, and defining priorities for action in the coming months.

Building on this progress, Senegal is moving closer to its goal of eliminating malaria by 2030, in line with international guidelines. This ambition is now being pursued through a combination of traditional tools and innovations, all working towards a stronger public health system.