Assembly/AU/4(XI) Page 14 Most countries in the region are moving towards universal access to malaria prevention and control among all at risk of malaria. Malaria Elimination has been discussed in several AU sessions but much needs to be done before any country is ready for malaria elimination. In conclusion, Member States have made moderate progress towards achieving targets set at the Abuja 2000, 2001, RBM and MDGs. Great political commitment, adoption of better policies as well as increased funding for malaria control from governments, development agencies and funding initiatives. However, few governments have achieved the target of devoting at least 15% government expenditure on health. Coverage of key malaria control interventions has increased in several countries. Slow production, supply and re-fill of ITNs and other preventive services; as well as monitoring of actual use. In spite of these laudable achievements, there is a lot more required if the set targets are to be achieved. Currently very few of these countries are likely to achieve the RBM, Abuja or MDG targets. A major constraint to achieving these targets has been weak health systems characterized by inadequate human resources, poor infrastructure as well as failure to implement a comprehensive package of interventions in the same geographical area for impact. Note should be made that a few countries in Africa do not have the Malaria burden. However, they need to be very vigilant as Malaria can easily be re-introduced. To enhance scaling up towards Malaria Elimination in Africa, the following recommendations are made: i. ii. iii. iv. v. vi. Countries should increase funding for the health sector and in particular malaria control and prevention. Partnerships at country level should be strengthened to optimize utilization of resources while avoiding duplication Investment should be made in strengthening health systems without which scaling up malaria control will not happen. Expansion of access to ACTs, ITNs and other malaria control interventions to all at risk of malaria should be undertaken. Procurement and supply chain management infrastructure should be strengthened to enhance access to malaria control and prevention services. Surveillance, Monitoring and Evaluation should be ensured to monitor progress and prevent re-introduction.