Insights and recommendations of African stakeholders on biocontrol technologies for malaria control
African conversations
Insights and recommendations of African stakeholders on biocontrol technologies for malaria control
Documenting key insights and recommendations from stakeholders across African countries to inform responsible development of gene drive technologies for malaria elimination.
Experts
Countries
Despite progress, malaria remains a leading cause of death with 241 million cases and nearly 630,000 deaths annually, mostly in sub-Saharan Africa. Current interventions like insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), indoor residual spraying (IRS), improved diagnosis and treatment have reduced the burden, but have reached efficacy limits in many regions.
Gene drive modified mosquitoes (GDMMs) offer a promising complementary solution by either reducing mosquito populations or blocking their ability to transmit malaria.
Estimated malaria cases worldwide in 2023, with most occurring in Africa
Lives lost to malaria in 2023, with children under 5 accounting for about 80% of all deaths in Africa
African Conversations is a collective of scientists, researchers, managers, and health champions who believe that for new technologies to succeed, every voice must be heard openly and honestly. We elevate diverse voices from youth to elders, from community leaders to policymakers, all united to create a healthier Africa.
Key Findings
Our research revealed broad stakeholder interest in gene drive technologies as potentially transformative tools for malaria elimination in resource-limited settings. However, stakeholders also highlighted important considerations that must be addressed before deployment.
To document opinions, concerns and recommendations from African stakeholders regarding gene drive technologies for malaria control and elimination
Provide accurate information about emerging gene drive technologies to key stakeholders across Africa.
Document diverse viewpoints, concerns, and recommendations from African communities and experts.
Inform responsible development and implementation of gene drive technologies for malaria control.
Our work is making a real difference in the field of gene drive research across Africa
African nations actively participated in research
Leading researchers and professionals involved
Structured discussions on benefits and concerns
Actionable insights for responsible development
Access comprehensive research materials, stakeholder engagement reports, and educational resources
Comprehensive documentation of stakeholder feedback, concerns, and recommendations collected during the project.
View Reports
Educational materials explaining gene drive technology concepts, applications, and implications for malaria control.
View Materials
Visual resources for understanding gene drive technology, including explanatory animations and training videos.
View ResourcesExplore our informative videos about gene drive technologies for malaria control.
This video explains gene drive technology for malaria control, showing how CRISPR-Cas9 can create mosquitoes with nearly 100% inheritance of modified genes. It contrasts two approaches: population suppression (reducing mosquito numbers) and population replacement (making mosquitoes unable to transmit malaria), while outlining how success is measured through disease reduction and community acceptance.
This video explores the regulatory challenges of gene drive technologies for malaria control. It highlights existing international frameworks like the Convention on Biological Diversity and WHO guidelines, while showing how the African Union is helping countries develop appropriate oversight mechanisms to assess both risks and benefits before potential implementation.