The Pan American Health Organization and France have strengthened their partnership to accelerate malaria elimination efforts across the Guiana Shield, a region considered one of the most challenging malaria transmission areas in the Americas. The renewed cooperation focuses on strengthening surveillance, prevention, and cross-border coordination in territories including Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and northern Brazil.
The partnership was formalized through a grant agreement signed between the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs and PAHO. Officials stated that the initiative aims to improve regional collaboration and support countries working toward the elimination of malaria before 2030. The agreement also reinforces France’s commitment to advancing public health cooperation in Latin America and the Caribbean.
According to PAHO Director Jarbas Barbosa, the funding will strengthen malaria surveillance and control activities in border areas where population mobility and illegal mining continue to contribute to malaria transmission. He emphasized that coordinated regional action is essential for reaching the “last mile” of malaria elimination in the Guiana Shield.
The Guiana Shield has experienced a resurgence in malaria cases in recent years despite decades of progress in reducing the disease burden. Experts have highlighted that stronger regional coordination, improved data sharing, and integrated public health interventions are necessary to address persistent transmission and prevent future outbreaks.
France’s support will also strengthen collaboration with regional institutions such as the Regional Health Agency of French Guiana and the Institut Pasteur in Cayenne. These organizations have been actively supporting research, surveillance, and technical cooperation aimed at improving malaria control and elimination strategies across the subregion.
PAHO noted that the initiative aligns with its broader Disease Elimination Initiative, which seeks to eliminate more than 30 communicable diseases and related conditions in the Americas by 2030. Strengthened malaria elimination efforts in the Guiana Shield are expected to improve regional health security, reduce cross-border transmission risks, and contribute to more resilient health systems.
