On 24 July, in a landmark achievement for global health, WHO officially certified Timor-Leste as malaria-free. This announcement marks a major milestone in the fight against one of the world’s oldest and deadliest diseases – and Rotary has played a vital role in this success.
Malaria has long devastated communities across the globe, claiming nearly 600,000 lives in 2023 alone. But Timor-Leste has defied the odds. From a peak of over 223,000 cases in 2006, the country has recorded zero indigenous cases since 2021. This victory is the result of years of coordinated effort between the Timorese government, international health bodies and dedicated partners, including Australian Rotarians Against Malaria (ARAM), a program of RAWCS Australia.
ARAM has been at the forefront of malaria elimination in the Asia-Pacific region for more than three decades. Its work in Timor-Leste and neighbouring countries includes distributing long lasting insecticidal nets, supplying indoor residual spraying machines, diagnostic tools and delivering community education programs. These efforts have empowered local health workers and communities to take charge of prevention and early treatment. ARAM’s goal was to help strengthen the countries’ capacity to fight against malaria.
During Timor-Leste’s 10th National Health Day celebrations, the country’s Minister of Health, Dr Élia António de Araújo dos Reis Amaral, publicly acknowledged ARAM’s contributions, alongside those of the WHO, Global Fund and other partners. The certification was described as a proud moment for the nation and a call to maintain vigilance against resurgence.
“This is a proud moment not only for Timor-Leste but for all of us who believe in the power of partnership and persistence,” said PDG Andrea Grosvenor, National Manager of ARAM. “The certification is a testament to what can be achieved when communities, governments and global networks unite with a shared purpose.
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