Dear Partners and Friends,

As we conclude 2024, I reflect on our journey with profound gratitude and renewed determination.

This year has been pivotal in our mission to #endmalaria, marked by significant milestones and persistent challenges as we face the perfect storm. 2024 has tested our resolve and showcased our collective strength. Leadership, I’ve learned, is not about commanding others but about inspiring collective action through trust, empathy, and vision. 

As I’ve often said, “True leadership lies in empowering others to realize

their potential and embrace their role in shaping a brighter future.” The RBM Secretariat team has exemplified this, demonstrating unwavering dedication, grit, and excellence to deliver at the highest calibre and I offer each member of my team my sincerest thanks.

This year brought transformative breakthroughs with the rollout of RTS,S and R21 malaria vaccines, an intervention that will protect millions of children in high-burden countries and offers a powerful new tool in our prevention efforts. In a remarkable achievement, Cape Verde and Egypt were officially certified malaria-free by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2024. These certifications are a testament to years of dedicated efforts, robust health systems, and the steadfast commitment of governments, communities, and partners. They serve as an inspiration and proof that a malaria-free world is within our reach.

Earlier this year, during the United Nations General Assembly, global leaders underscored the urgent need for increased funding to combat malaria. Without this critical support, projections indicate a potential rise in malaria-related deaths by 300,000. This stark reality propelled our advocacy efforts, including the formation of a global parliamentary taskforce to champion malaria funding ahead of the 8th Global Fund Replenishment.

A common theme is 2024 was recognising the power of youth in driving change, we launched the Youth Workstream in August to ensure young leaders have the tools and platforms necessary to make a significant impact in malaria elimination efforts. Their enthusiasm and innovative perspectives have infused new energy into our campaigns, fostering a sense of ownership and urgency among the next generation.

Despite these advancements, the World Malaria Report 2024 indicates a slight increase in cases, with 263 million cases and 597,000 deaths reported in 2023. This data serves as a sobering reminder of the work that remains. The RBM Partnership continues to call for increased funding to address malaria, and with women and children still remaining disproportionately affected, it underscores the work still needed to close equity gaps.

Our progress is a testament to the unwavering commitment of our partners, health workers, and communities. Yet, the path to malaria elimination demands sustained effort, innovation, and solidarity.

As we transition into 2025, let us reaffirm our dedication to this cause, ensuring that our strategies are inclusive, our actions decisive, and our resolve unshakable.

I extend my deepest appreciation for your contributions and look forward to our continued collaboration in the year ahead.

All the best,

Dr. Michael Adekunle Charles

CEO, RBM Partnership to End Malaria