Tanzania has made significant progress in the fight against malaria, with national infection rates dropping by 6.7% over the past seven years.
According to recent malaria indicator surveys, prevalence has declined from 14.8% in 2015 to 8.1% in 2022.
This achievement is credited to the concerted efforts of the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania under the leadership of President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan.
Minister of Health, Jenista Mhagama, shared the encouraging update on May 12, 2025, during the official launch of the second phase of the nationwide mosquito control initiative. The launch was held at the Songea District Council Hospital in Peramiho, Ruvuma Region.
"Thanks to the strong leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, we have seen a remarkable decline in malaria infections and related deaths," said Minister Mhagama.
"This second phase of distributing larvicides aims to further eliminate malaria by targeting mosquito breeding grounds across all local councils."
Despite the national progress, some regions still report high malaria prevalence. Tabora leads with a rate of 20%, followed by Kagera at 18% and Shinyanga at 16%.
In contrast, regions such as Arusha, Manyara, Dar es Salaam, Songwe, Mwanza, Iringa, and Singida report infection rates below 1%.
Malaria-related deaths have also seen a sharp decline—from 6,311 in 2015 to 1,503 in 2024.
As part of the government’s continued commitment, President Samia has allocated TZS 10 billion to procure 833,333 liters of locally manufactured mosquito-control insecticides, produced in Kibaha, Pwani Region. These will be distributed nationwide to help eradicate mosquito populations and prevent future outbreaks.
“In the first phase, we reached 57 councils. Now, under the President’s directive, we are extending coverage to the remaining 127 councils, including Songea District,” said the Minister.
“We are immensely grateful for the President’s dedication to safeguarding the health of all Tanzanians.”
This initiative underscores the government’s determination to eliminate malaria as a major public health threat and to protect future generations through sustainable, science-based interventions.