Kenya has recorded a 5% decline in malaria incidence in 2025, according to the Ministry of Health, marking progress in the country's fight against the disease. The data, released on April 25, 2026, World Malaria Day, shows that malaria still accounts for a significant share of outpatient visits nationwide.
The decline is attributed to increased distribution of insecticide-treated nets, indoor residual spraying, and improved access to rapid diagnostic tests and artemisinin-based combination therapies. The Ministry of Health reported that over 15 million nets were distributed in high-risk areas in 2025.
Despite the reduction, malaria remains a leading cause of illness and death in Kenya, particularly among children under five and pregnant women. The World Health Organization estimates that Kenya had 6.5 million malaria cases in 2024, with the 5% drop bringing the 2025 figure to approximately 6.2 million.
Health officials emphasize the need for sustained funding and community engagement to achieve the national goal of reducing malaria incidence by 75% by 2030, in line with the Global Technical Strategy for Malaria.
