The World Malaria Day is celebrated every year on April 25th. Established by the World Health Organization (WHO), this day aims to raise awareness among the public about this parasitic disease transmitted by mosquitoes, and to promote efforts in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. In Chad, malaria remains a major public health concern, particularly affecting children and still causing numerous deaths.
Through this commemoration, the main objective is to inform about the risks, symptoms, and prevention methods, including the use of insecticide-treated bed nets and repellents, while encouraging governments and organizations to intensify funding for combating this disease. The key remains to significantly reduce cases and deaths, especially in sub-Saharan Africa where malaria is most deadly.
According to Birwé Étienne, head of the Sainte Mère Teresa de Calcutta health center in Walia, this day, adopted in 2007, allows for coordinating and strengthening efforts globally. “This disease is transmitted by mosquitoes, particularly female mosquitoes. It caused over 600,000 deaths in 2022, with a majority being children,” he explains.
At the Sainte Mère Teresa de Calcutta health center, a slight improvement has been observed in recent months. “In 2025, we were recording between 400 and 500 cases per month. In 2026, with the introduction of the R21 vaccine, we are seeing gradual improvement. However, this vaccine is preventive and not curative, and alone is not sufficient,” adds Birwé Étienne.
In response to this situation, he calls for a collective mobilization and emphasizes the importance of individual behaviors. “It is essential to maintain a clean and healthy environment. Children, particularly vulnerable, should sleep under insecticide-treated bed nets and be vaccinated. Protecting children begins within families,” he advises.
For this 2026 edition, the message focuses on proactive prevention, early detection, and prompt treatment, while calling for concerted efforts across society to achieve long-term malaria elimination.
Ndilnodji Stéphane
