DAR ES SALAAM, June 9 (Xinhua) -- Tanzanian health authorities on Tuesday called on research institutions to intensify efforts to find a lasting solution to eliminate malaria, which continues to pose a major public health threat in the country.

Health Minister Mohamed Mchengerwa made the call while opening the 33rd Annual Joint Scientific Conference organized by the National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR) in the northern city of Arusha, noting that despite significant progress in controlling malaria, the disease remains prevalent, particularly in developing countries.

Mchengerwa underscored the importance of strengthening research and innovation to address health challenges, urging both domestic and international collaborations to produce practical solutions.

The minister also called on researchers to focus on identifying sustainable and comprehensive solutions to eradicate malaria in Tanzania.

James Mdoe, chairperson of the NIMR Board of Directors, said Tanzania is strengthening the role of science, technology and innovation as key drivers of socio-economic development under the country's Development Vision 2050.

He also highlighted the need to increase domestic investment in research and development, citing a decline in funding from development partners and stressing the importance of building self-reliance in addressing national challenges.

According to statistics from Tanzania's Ministry of Health, malaria remains a major public health challenge in Tanzania, with about 3.1 million confirmed cases recorded in 2024, down from 7.7 million in 2015. ■