Over 50% decline in Mpumalanga malaria cases
In the current year 1 066 cases were recorded, a significant drop compared with 2 578 in 2023/24.
The MEC for health, Sasekani Manzini, said a further reduction is expected, especially in the Ehlanzeni district, as most cases were linked to individuals in Bushbuckridge, Mbombela and Nkomazi.
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'We have a story to tell of significant achievement regarding malaria deaths, which have been reduced from 21 to three deaths between 2023/24 and 2024/25. That translates to an 86% reduction in deaths. During 2024/25, we had only one local and two imported transmissions leading to deaths. Our local transmission has also been reduced from 702 to 69 local cases, which is a 90% reduction,' she said.
Manzini revealed these statistics in her keynote address at the commemoration of World Malaria Day, held at Nutting House Lodge on Friday, May 2.
The day was observed under the theme, 'Malaria ends with us to reinvest, reimagine, reignite', which is aimed at publicising the need for continuous investment in malaria elimination.
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Manzini said malaria is preventable, treatable and curable, while urging the public to take note of the early signs of infection such as fever, headache, body pains, extreme sweating, vomiting and diarrhoea.
She said that any person who is experiencing one or more of these symptoms – and who has been in an area where malaria is prevalent – should not delay visiting their nearest healthcare facility. She added that a malaria infection can get complicated quickly, making it hard to manage, which could lead to death.
The event was attended by government dignitaries, clinical health services workers, provincial malaria spray operators, members of the Traditional Health Organisation and community members.
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Young Kwenzokuhle Shabangu being screened ahead of surgery with nurse volunteer Petro Archer and volunteer Skye Abrahams. Image: Supplied Since launching in South Africa in 2006, Operation Smile has built a network of more than 150 active volunteers — including surgeons, anaesthetists, nurses, paediatricians, dentists, speech therapists, psychologists and biomedical staff. Many of these experts travel across South Africa and the region to deliver care and train others. 'Our long-term goal is to build sustainability, so that this specialised cleft care can happen in the public health system — whether we are there or not,' said Scarth. Dental care was also a key component of the weekend's programme. The Rob Ferreira Hospital Oral Health team — supported by Operation Smile — provided free treatments such as fillings, cleanings, extractions, restorations, sealants, and baby root canals. 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