This World Malaria Day, April 25, the Presbyterian Malaria Vaccine Advocacy Team (PMVAT) will host a free webinar, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (EDT). The event will focus on the life-saving potential of new malaria vaccines and ways to advocate for vaccine access in low-income countries. Our Global Missions Committee urges all to attend. Register at worldmalariadaywebinar.eventbrite.com.

Malaria kills more than 600,000 people every year, with most deaths occurring in Africa. Four out of five victims are children under five. The Presbyterian Malaria Vaccine Advocacy Team, formed by Africa mission networks affiliated with Presbyterian Church (USA),  is dedicated to raising awareness about this crisis. The team emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic, recognizing the shared interest in collective advocacy for global health issues.

The webinar will highlight bipartisan efforts in Congress to support vaccine distribution through Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, as a cost-effective way to prevent child and maternal deaths. This initiative emphasizes the importance of sustained U.S. government support for vaccine access in low-income countries.

Expert speakers:

·      Dr. Serge Makolo from the Democratic Republic of Congo will share his experiences addressing malaria as a leading health issue

·      Dr. Nyaah Fidelis from Cameroon will discuss the rollout of malaria vaccines in his country.

·      Rev. Dr. Mwawi Chilongozi from Malawi will provide Biblical perspectives on healing.

·      Representatives from Gavi and the PC(USA) Office of Public Witness will also offer practical steps for advocacy.

“This is a chance to learn how we can fight malaria together,” said Sue Gibbons, PMVAT convenor. Join us this World Malaria Day to help save lives and make a difference!”