Nicholas Walker Childhood
Malaria Program

"Every two minutes a child dies of malaria"

According to the World Health Organization, in 2019, there were 229 million malaria cases globally that led to 409,000 deaths, 67 percent (274,000) were children under five years of age, most were children from Sub-Saharan Africa.

This translates into a daily toll of nearly 750 children under the age of five. Africa carries the highest share of the global malaria burden. The region is home to 93% of all malaria cases and 94% of deaths in 2018.

Impact We’ve Made So Far

501

Children tested for malaria
before treatment

79

Children treated after testing
positive for malaria

594

Malaria pills dispensed
to children under 5 years

More About The Program

Africa is the most affected region with malaria infections and deaths due to a very efficient mosquito responsible for high transmission. The predominant parasite is the most likely to cause severe malaria and death. Malaria is easily preventable and treatable, however, it continues to have a devasting impact on people’s health and livelihoods around the continent.

In June 2020, mPharma, a technology-driven health care company launched the Nicholas Walker Childhood Malaria Program in Ghana to expand access to testing and treatment for children under five years.

In 2021, the program expanded to Zambia and Kenya to continue the fight against childhood malaria infections and deaths. The program provides mothers in high-burden malaria areas the opportunity to access timely testing facilities and use medication appropriately to treat the disease.

The initiative aims to prompt diagnosis and effective treatment of malaria infections in high-transmission areas to prevent childhood deaths. The program is named in honor and memory of Nicholas Walker, whose work as mPharma’s Global Head of Business Development helped shape the company’s mission of building an Africa in Good Health.