The "Roll Back Malaria" Campaign

Abstract

The World Health Organization9s new Director General, Gro Harlem Brundtland, assumes office on 21 July. One of her major commitments is a renewed global effort to "Roll Back Malaria." This initiative, supported by leaders of the G8 countries and the Organization of African Unity, will strengthen health systems in developing countries, making effective treatment and prevention more accessible to poor people. It will lead to sustained reductions in malaria mortality and reduce the economic burden of the disease, particularly among poorer people. It is not a renewed attempt to eradicate the disease. Brundtland is proposing an international partnership working toward common objectives through an agreed strategy: The partnership will be made up of organizations dedicated to research and disease control in the public and private sectors, together with national governments, international organizations, and development banks. WHO will be the hub of the wheel, ensuring that partners9 efforts are as effective as possible in reducing the impact of malaria on our world. We anticipate that this novel approach will succeed.