Launch of the 18th Edition of World Malaria Day in Benin: A Call for Collective Action to Eradicate This Scourge Once and for All -

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The chairman of the “Zero Malaria” Fund Management Committee, Lazare Noulekou, highlighted the progress made while warning about the ongoing challenges, particularly the limited access to healthcare services for vulnerable populations.

The Blue Room of the Palais des Congrès in Cotonou hosted the official launch ceremony of the 18th edition of World Malaria Day on Friday, April 25, 2025. The event was held under the evocative theme: “Reinvest, Reimagine, and Revitalize Our Collective Efforts to End Malaria.”
The event was graced by the presence of the Minister of Health, Mr. Benjamin HOUNKPATIN, along with many distinguished guests, including Mr. Alain OROUNLA, Prefect of the Littoral Department, representatives of UNICEF, regional health directors, technical and financial partners, as well as women, men, and children, illustrating the breadth of this collective commitment.

Mr. Alain OROUNLA was the first to speak, emphasizing the urgency of the fight against this disease: “Malaria is a disease we know how to prevent and treat, yet every minute, a child loses their life because of it,” he stated. He highlighted the importance of World Malaria Day, established in 2005, as an opportunity to reflect on the national situation and define strategies to intensify prevention efforts.

The Chairman of the “Zero Malaria” Fund Management Committee, Mr. Lazare NOULEKOU, recalled the progress made while warning about persistent challenges, notably the limited access to healthcare services for vulnerable populations. According to him, malaria not only impacts public health but also has a significant economic impact, resulting in productivity losses at work and in schools.

Mr. Ousmane NIANG, representing UNICEF, stressed that the theme of this year’s edition should encourage a renewed commitment to overcoming this endemic disease.

For his part, Minister HOUNKPATIN expressed his gratitude for the citizens’ mobilization and reminded the audience that malaria remains the leading cause of medical consultations and hospitalizations in Benin.
“In Benin, malaria continues to be a major public health problem due to the consequences it causes within communities — including medical expenses, school absenteeism, work absenteeism, loss of productivity, and the high number of deaths when proper care is not provided. It is the leading cause of consultation and hospitalization in health facilities across the country, and it remains the primary cause of death among children under the age of five,” he explained.

Mr. Benjamin HOUNKPATIN concluded by thanking the President of the Republic, Mr. Patrice TALON, for his support in the fight against malaria, reaffirming that public health remains a national priority.