Benin Sets a Bold Course Toward Ending Malaria

Statement – The decision adopted by the Government of Benin at the Council of Ministers on 18 February 2026 to establish a National Agency for the Fight Against Malaria and Mosquitoes, placed under the authority of the Presidency of the Republic, marks a transformative milestone in the country’s fight against malaria.

By elevating malaria elimination to the highest level of governance, Benin is sending a powerful signal of political will, national ownership, and accountability. This decisive move reflects the leadership imperative championed under the RBM Partnership’s Big Push Against Malaria, particularly Pillar 2, which calls for strengthened national leadership and integrated responses, and positions Benin among the countries driving a new era of country-led action.

The new Agency will strengthen the executive, legislative, and regulatory framework for malaria control; accelerate domestic resource mobilization; deepen public–private partnerships; and intensify vector control through smarter, One Health-aligned mosquito management strategies. It will also enable the deployment of innovative technologies, prioritize research and innovation, strengthen surveillance in sentinel and border areas, and reinforce multisectoral collaboration to promote prevention, community engagement, and behavior change.

With its autonomous and flexible governance structure, the Agency is designed to complement and reinforce the work of the National Malaria Control Program (NMCP), equipping Benin with the agility and resources needed to accelerate impact in a global context marked by tightening health financing. International and regional partners have welcomed this bold step as a model of leadership and commitment.

Dr. Michael Charles, CEO of the RBM Partnership to End Malaria, emphasized that “Benin’s decision reflects the level of political leadership and accountability required to defeat malaria. It embodies the spirit of the Big Push Against Malaria by placing country-led action, sustainable financing, and multisectoral coordination at the center of the response. Benin is setting a powerful example for the region and accelerating the path toward a malaria-free future.”

Echoing this momentum, Yacine Djibo, Executive Director of Speak Up Africa, noted that “elevating malaria elimination as a national priority demonstrates what strong leadership and sustained advocacy can achieve. By embracing innovation, partnerships, and community engagement, Benin is protecting its most vulnerable populations and reinforcing momentum toward ending preventable deaths.”

Honorable Aké Natondé, Parliamentarian and champion of the Zero Malaria Starts with Me movement, underscored the importance of continued national mobilization: “The creation of this Agency reflects Benin’s determination to protect its communities and sustain political accountability. Parliamentarians, civil society, and citizens will continue working together to ensure this commitment translates into lasting results.”

At a time when global health financing is under pressure, Benin’s decision stands as a powerful example of national leadership, strategic prioritization, and collective resolve, demonstrating that ending malaria is not only possible, but within reach.