Distinguished participants
Researchers
Partners and colleagues
Good morning to you all.
I am very pleased to address this esteemed gathering at the 9th International Conference on Plasmodium vivax Research. While I regret not being able to join you in person, I am nonetheless happy to contribute to this critical dialogue bringing together some of the brightest minds in our fight against malaria.
Malaria elimination in our WHO South-East Asia Region is a story of remarkable progress and persistent challenges.
Despite being the second-largest contributor to the global malaria burden, the region has achieved reductions of 83% in cases and 84% in deaths compared to 2010. This is the largest decline among all WHO regions, and something we should rightfully be proud of.
This shows the tireless efforts of governments, health workers, and communities. Yet, formidable challenges remain - particularly in addressing the high burden of Plasmodium vivax, which accounts for more than half of all reported cases in the region.
As you know, Vivax malaria has unique complexities. Its relapse potential, its geographic spread, and the operational hurdles posed by managing G6PD deficiency demand innovative and tailored solutions.
The Region’s commitment to malaria elimination by 2030 is steadfast. First articulated through the Ministerial Declaration on Accelerating and Sustaining Malaria Elimination in the South-East Asia Region in 2017, this vision was reaffirmed in 2022. The collective determination of countries to tackle malaria with urgency, focus, and collaboration is evident.
This conference is a platform to advance these efforts. Thematic sessions offer critical insights into the parasite’s biology and intervention strategies. The focus on cutting-edge diagnostics and advanced systems represents an opportunity to reshape how we detect, understand, and combat vivax malaria.
Emerging challenges, such as the shifting epidemiology driven by climate change, further underscore the need for adaptive strategies and resilient health systems. These complexities necessitate continued investment in research and innovation, particularly in the areas of treatment efficacy, drug resistance, and novel interventions.
Your work as researchers is pivotal to overcoming these challenges. By unlocking new knowledge and translating it into actionable solutions, you are shaping a future where malaria no longer threatens the health and well-being of our communities. The collective impact of this conference will resonate far beyond its duration, bringing us closer to achieving the vision of a malaria-free Region.
I commend you for your dedication, collaboration, and passion. Thank you for the work that you do.
I wish you a successful meeting and look forward to being briefed on the outcomes of your deliberations.
Thank you.