Rwanda’s Ambassador to Switzerland, Urujeni Bakuramutsa, has raised alarm over the growing threat of malaria drug resistance, urging swift and coordinated global measures to address the challenge.
Speaking in Geneva during events marking World Malaria Day, Ambassador Bakuramutsa highlighted Rwanda’s experience, noting that the country has already detected early signs of malaria parasites showing reduced responsiveness to existing treatments in certain areas.
The ambassador made the remarks during high-level discussions focused on tackling antimalarial drug resistance and accelerating efforts toward the disease’s elimination.
The talks brought together global health leaders to assess the scale of the problem and identify practical solutions.
Drawing on Rwanda’s response, Bakuramutsa outlined a series of measures the country has implemented, including strengthening disease surveillance systems, updating national treatment guidelines, and introducing targeted interventions tailored to emerging resistance patterns.
Participants at the meeting emphasized the urgent need for stronger collaboration between governments and international organizations to prevent setbacks in the fight against malaria.
There was broad consensus that without decisive action, gains made over the past decades could be reversed.
The discussions were organized by Medicines for Malaria Venture and RBM Partnership to End Malaria, and convened stakeholders including the World Health Organization, member states, and global health partners.
The gathering aimed to evaluate the current status of malaria drug resistance and reinforce coordinated international efforts to sustain progress toward the ultimate goal of eradicating the disease.
By Andrew shyaka
