Burkina Faso I.C.E.M.R.

Transmission of the distinct malaria species (Plasmodium falciparum, P. malariae, and P. ovale species) is persistent and robust in Burkina Faso, with evidence that the latter minor species are growing in prevalence and transmitted differently by vector species across landscapes and ecozones. Inadequate surveillance, insensitive diagnostics, a lack of understanding of both parasite within-host dynamics and the roles of the diverse and seasonally-abundant vector species (primarily Anopheles gambiae s.s., An. coluzzi, An. arabiensis, An. funestus s.s., and An. nili) has hindered progress in malaria control.

In the short-term, the Burkina Faso International Center for Malaria Research (ICEMR) aims to bring together local and international experts in the host, parasite, and vector, to define the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of malaria across the Sudan, Sudan-Sahel, and Sahelian ecozones and within differing landscape environments (urban, rural, and migrant/gold-mining camps). Xenosurveillance will be used to characterize parasite and vector diversity. Parasite and host data will be tightly linked to the complexity of vector species and their locations near transient or permanent water sources, and translational studies with point-of-care tests, drug and insecticide resistance performed. In the long term, the Burkina Faso ICEMR, with its close ties with the Ministry of Health, will be able to inform country-wide policies, and ultimately have the local skill set and resources to sustainably advance malaria control across the country and the greater West African region.

P.I.V.O.T.A.L. Projects

Lead Institutions