Introduction

The entire population of the Democratic Republic of Congo is at high risk of malaria and transmission is intense year round with seasonal variations. The annual reported number of malaria cases in 2010 was 7,439,440 with 23,476 deaths.

Progress

The Democratic Republic of Congo has banned oral artemisinin-based monotherapies from the country and introduced policies on Community Case Management of malaria and pneumonia. The country has mobilized resources for the procurement of most of the required anti-malarial commodities, but there exist shortfalls and financing gaps for the procurement of the required numbers of RDTs. The country should complete the LLIN universal coverage campaign in the next quarter. Additionally, there have been improvements in MNCH interventions, in particular, skilled birth attendants.

Impact

The annual reported number of malaria cases in 2010 was 7,439,440 with 23,476 deaths. 731,941 malaria admissions were reported in 2010.

Key Challenges

  • Delays in funding disbursement impacted timely availability of LLINs for the distribution campaign.
  • Implementation challenges caused by inadequate logistical and infrastructural capacity.

"By establishing ALMA, we are now creating a critical forum and mechanism for advocacy, action, and follow-up on the implementation of these noble malaria goals."

~ President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, United Republic of Tanzania