May 22, 2017 (WASHINGTON, D.C.) – Malaria No More congratulates H.E. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on his appointment as Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO).
“As the first WHO Director-General from Africa, Dr. Tedros knows first-hand the benefits of sustaining efforts to end malaria for good,” said Martin Edlund, CEO of Malaria No More. “He also knows all too well the devastating consequences to families and communities, economies and health security if we let up the fight.”
Under Dr. Tedros’ leadership as Ethiopia’s Minister of Health from 2005 to 2012, the nation achieved remarkable results in preventing and controlling malaria. Ethiopia reduced malaria deaths by more than 50 percent, in part by training and deploying an army of community health workers across the country. Tedros’ long-standing commitment to and leadership in the malaria fight will be instrumental during his tenure. Over the next five years, the world aims to reduce malaria cases and deaths by an additional 40 percent. At least 10 countries are expected to eliminate malaria in accordance with the WHO’s Global Technical Strategy for Malaria 2016-2030, a comprehensive framework that guides countries in their efforts to accelerate progress toward malaria elimination.
“We look forward to supporting Dr. Tedros’ efforts to put the world on the path to ending malaria,” said Edlund. “We will work with him to help ensure no child has to die from a mosquito bite and millions more have the opportunity to reach their full potential in a malaria-free world.”
For more information or interview requests, contact Michal Fishman at +1 504-220-2792 or Michal.Fishman@MalariaNoMore.org.
