President Ibrahim Traoré’s Government Halts Gates Foundation-Backed Anti-Malaria Project

Burkina Faso has suspended a research program funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation aimed at combating malaria, a major killer in Africa. The project, known as Target Malaria, sought to develop genetically modified mosquitoes that cannot transmit the disease.

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The suspension comes after criticism from anti-Western activists, according to a statement by Samuel Pare, chief official at the country’s higher education and research ministry. The ministry ordered the program to cease activities in the West African nation.

Target Malaria’s initiative had been working to create a species of mosquitoes that would help reduce malaria transmission. The disease remains a significant health threat in many African countries, including Burkina Faso.

The suspension highlights the challenges faced by global health initiatives in some regions, where local sentiments and concerns can impact project implementation.

President Ibrahim Traoré’s government has been assertive in its decision-making, reflecting its commitment to self-determination and sovereignty. This move is part of a broader trend of Burkina Faso reevaluating its partnerships and prioritizing local needs.