Why climate change could undo decades of malaria progress
Southern Africa is facing a malaria surge — and climate change could make it far worse. Warmer temperatures, heavier rains, and more extreme weather are creating the perfect conditions for mosquitoes to thrive, even in regions that have historically been less affected.
By 2050, 1.3 billion Africans are expected to live in areas where eradicating malaria will be harder than it is today. Unless control measures improve, changing weather patterns could cause an additional 550,000 malaria deaths between 2030 and 2049.
From vaccinations and mosquito sterilisation to extreme-weather preparedness and climate-integrated health models, scientists and health workers are racing to adapt. The stakes go beyond health — reducing malaria also boosts productivity, education, and economic growth.
Source: https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2025/08/07/how-climate-change-could-spread-malaria
