Reporter: NATIONAL MANAGER – DAVID PEARSON
Rotarians Against Malaria (RAM)
Major players in the global struggle to eradicate malaria have recognised that we have reached a cross-road. Despite the impressive 60% reduction in the annual death toll from malaria since 2000 and the steady stream of countries achieving local malaria elimination. Progress seems to have stalled.
Many recognise that now is the time for sustained resurgent activity to achieve malaria elimination for all time.
Bill Gates is lobbying for a 2025 date for elimination in SE Asia and the Pacific as well as urging the Australian Government to take leadership to accelerate the programs. The 1st Malaria World Congress will be held in Melbourne (July 1-5 2018) and I have been appointed to the International Advisory Board for the Conference Committee.
The Congress is shaping up to be a very important and timely meeting at which RAM will be represented, highlighting the success of our ongoing programs in PNG and Solomon Islands and our commitment to assist Timor-Leste to quickly achieve malaria free certification through support from a $USD 240,000 Global Grant.
Also, of note is the successful fundraising for the Malaria Vaccine Project which is expected to meet the $AUD 500,000 target.