Malaria Resurgence in Namibia Prompts Urgent Response
Namibia is facing a significant surge in malaria cases, prompting the launch of an urgent Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) campaign. The dramatic increase, with nearly six times the number of cases reported compared to the previous year, is raising concerns and demanding swift action from health officials.
Dramatic Increase in Cases and Deaths
In 2025, Namibia recorded a staggering 95,729 malaria cases, a substantial rise from the 16,113 cases reported in 2024 1. This surge has been accompanied by a sharp increase in fatalities, with 204 deaths recorded in 2025, compared to 50 in 2024 1, 2. Notably, no deaths have been reported in the past three months of 2025.
Regional Hotspots
The burden of malaria is not evenly distributed across the country. Katima Mulilo District in the Zambezi region accounts for 26.2% of all cases, making it the most affected area 1, 2. Nkurenkuru in Kavango West and Andara in Kavango East are also experiencing high case numbers 1, 2.
Indoor Residual Spraying Campaign
In response to the escalating crisis, Health Minister Esperance Luvindao launched an urgent Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) campaign 1, 2. IRS involves spraying the interior walls of homes with insecticide to kill malaria-carrying mosquitoes. This method is considered a critical malaria prevention strategy, particularly for vulnerable populations like children and pregnant women.
National Efforts and Community Involvement
The national target for IRS coverage is 85% of households in Namibia’s 10 malaria-endemic regions 1. Minister Luvindao emphasized the importance of community cooperation and urged residents to work with spraying teams. The 2025 campaign theme, “Strengthening Community Efforts Towards Eliminating Malaria,” highlights the crucial role of behavioral change and unity in combating the disease.
Call to Action
Minister Luvindao has called on traditional leaders to mobilize residents, youth to lead peer education, and parents to seek early treatment for children showing symptoms 1, 2. She stressed that the fight against malaria requires a collective effort, stating, “The finish of malaria starts with us, with you, with me, with all of us working together.”