Work

The invisible malaria epidemic in Somalia: why molecular surveillance can no longer wait

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Malaria remains a hidden public health challenge in Somalia, where weak surveillance systems and reliance on conventional diagnostics may underestimate transmission and disease complexity. The absence of molecular surveillance limits understanding of parasite diversity, drug resistance, and emerging transmission patterns. In the context of climate change, displacement, and fragile health systems, Somalia urgently needs genomic approaches integrated into malaria surveillance. Molecular surveillance can provide critical evidence to strengthen early detection, targeted interventions, and elimination strategies. Establishing these capacities now is essential to prevent an invisible malaria epidemic from becoming an uncontrolled public health crisis.

Source: Malaria Journal

DOI: 10.1186/s12936-026-06219-x

Authors: Mohamed Mahdi Hashi, Abdisamad Abdihakim Aadam, Abdishakur Ahmed Mahad, Abdimalik Dahir Ali, Ilyas Abdullahi khalif

Institutions: Somali National University, Benaadir Research, Consultancy and Evaluation Center (Somalia)

Language: English

Topic: Malaria Research and Control

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,890