Review Article Impact of climate change on malaria transmission in Africa: A scoping review of literature

Byron Chapoterera, Keshena Naidoo, Anesu Marume

About the author(s) Byron Chapoterera, School of Nursing and Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
Keshena Naidoo, School of Nursing and Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
Anesu Marume, Department of Global Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe

Abstract

Background: Climate change has significant health implications, disproportionately affecting Africa because of its limited adaptive capacity and socio-environmental vulnerabilities. Malaria, a climate-sensitive disease, is a major public health concern. Climate change influences malaria transmission by altering vector behaviour, parasite life cycles and environmental conditions.
Aim: To identify, map and analyse evidence on the relationship between malaria and climate change in Africa.
Setting: The study examined institutional and community-based studies conducted in the African region.
Method: A systematic review of studies published between January 2010 and December 2024 was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, African Index Medicus and Embase using keywords related to climate change and malaria. Thematic analysis was applied to synthesise patterns and trends.
Results: Ninety studies were included. Findings demonstrate that slight temperature increases significantly impact malaria transmission by accelerating mosquito vector and parasite development. Changes in rainfall patterns, whether excessive or diminished, affect mosquito breeding sites, leading to fluctuations in malaria incidence. Regional variations highlight the need for localised interventions.
Conclusion: Climate factors are crucial in malaria prevalence and distribution in Africa. As climate shifts alter mosquito populations, traditional interventions, such as chemical spraying, may become less effective. Integrating ecological data into malaria control strategies ensures interventions remain effective under changing climatic conditions. Strengthening climate-responsive policies will be pivotal in malaria reduction and elimination efforts.
Contribution: This review offers a comprehensive synthesis of climate–malaria interactions, providing insights for policymakers and researchers to develop climate-informed malaria control strategies tailored to Africa’s diverse ecosystems landscapes.

Keywords

climate change; anopheles; plasmodium vector; global warming; rainfall; temperature

Sustainable Development Goal

Goal 13: Climate action

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