MIN/Sp/AU/CAMH3/6 Malaria Page 22 are also phased out to reduce the risk of rapid development of resistance to the therapy. About 4 ACTs are in the pipeline to be launched soon. To ensure sustained ACT supply, production of Artemisia the raw ingredient for production of ACTs has increased with several African countries involved in cultivation of Artemisia annua. Over the last 5 years several long-lasting insecticides treated net (LLINs) brands have come on the market. Provision of LLINs eliminates the need for re-treatment of the nets if their efficacy is to be maintained. LLINs do not require retreatment during the lifespan of the net ensuring sustained efficacy of the product. The funding initiatives mentioned above have procured the bulk of ITNs, insisting on purchase of only LLINs in the last 3 years. Since 2004, global production of ITNs has doubled from 30 million in 2004 to 63 million in 2006 11 . This increase in ITN production coupled with availability of resources and development of novel distribution channels has led to a steep rise in nets procured and distributed to end-users. Most of the nets are distributed free to end users while others are highly subsidized ensuring more equitable access to ITNs. However there are several challenges with forecasting of needs and ensuring timely flow of information on these commodities, from the producers, suppliers and consumers. Unless these factors are addressed, there is a risk of shortage of ACTs in the future. 2.6 Research and Development MOH have established mechanisms for developing and coordinating priority research agenda. There is continuing collaboration with TDR and other research initiatives such as the Malaria Vaccines Initiative (MVI), the Malaria Medicines Venture (MMV) all supported by Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to improve implementation and develop novel technologies. 2.7 Partnerships and Advocacy The RBM partnership was established in 1998. Consequently, all countries in the African region have established partnerships at the country level. Also, sub-regional RBM partnerships networks (SRNs) have been established that bring together all key partners in the sub-region to consolidate support for malaria control in the respective countries. The SRNs are Eastern Africa (EARN), Western Africa (WARN), Central Africa (CARN) and Southern Africa (SARN). Since 2000, 25 April has been commemorated as Africa malaria day. Regional events have been held across the sub-region as well as at the national level in respective countries. The commemoration of Africa Malaria day has increased the visibility of malaria and has put it on top of the agenda in many countries. In 2006 the 11 UNICEF & RBM (2007) Malaria & children progress in Intervention coverage. Status Report on Malaria in Africa 2008