As we learned in the early chapters of our textbook, disease is one of the primary issues that has plagued Africa not just in the past, but in recent times as well. One of the diseases which has caused problems in the modern world has been that of Malaria. Luckily though, according to a BBC Health article, nearly 700 million cases of Malaria have been prevented in Africa. According to the article, the "overall number of infections fell by 50% across the continent."
Despite their best efforts, Africa apparently still houses 80% of the cases, and 78% of the deaths from Malaria. The continent still has quite a way to go before Malaria is fully eradicated, but a 50% drop in cases is significant progress nonetheless. Part of what has inhibited Africa's growth as a continent has been disease, and fighting Malaria and other fatal diseases is a step in the right direction to bring prosperity to that region of the world.
The article goes on to state that several countries are looking to have the disease completely gone by 2020. One major hurdle for fighting the disease, and other diseases however is funding. It will be up to governments and other private funders such as the Bill Gates Foundation to continue the fight against disease in Africa.
Source(s): http://www.bbc.com/news/health-34260339
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