USAID Cutbacks Threaten Critical Malaria Research - Immunify.Life & MMUST University

KAKAMEGA, Kenya - Feb. 27, 2025 - PRLog -- Immunify.Life & Masinde Muliro University of Science & Technology (MMUST) have launched a transformative five-year study to strengthen malaria surveillance, monitoring, and evaluation in high-risk malaria-endemic regions of Kenya. However, despite its potential to revolutionize malaria control, the study remains unfunded following the closure of USAID offices and the suspension of operations.

Malaria continues to threaten millions of lives, creating an urgent need for innovative, data-driven solutions. This initiative integrates advanced blockchain technology, AI-driven analytics, and academic expertise to develop a secure, transparent, real-time system for tracking malaria cases, interventions, and treatment outcomes.

A New Era in Malaria Surveillance & Control

This groundbreaking study, a result of collaboration between Immunify.Life and MMUST, introduces a decentralized, tamper-proof data system that will:

• Reduce malaria burden in Kenya
• Enhance malaria case tracking and reporting, ensuring real-time intervention
• Identify key risk factors influencing malaria incidence and reinfection
• Monitor and evaluate treatment efficacy through AI analytics
• Assess emerging malaria threats, particularly Anopheles stephensi
• Track distribution of bed nets and treatments, minimizing leakage
• Train healthcare workers and researchers in advanced malaria surveillance methods
• Conduct epidemiological studies on malaria trends, vector resistance, and intervention efficacy

With USAID funding uncertain, millions remain at risk, with reduced access to healthcare, malaria prevention, and treatment programs. Immunify.Life and MMUST urge NGOs, governments, private donors, and global health organizations to step in and support this crucial study.

"The technology exists. The expertise exists. The plan is in place. What's missing is the funding," said Guy Newing, CEO of Immunify.Life. "This study is not just about research—it's about saving lives. Every day of inaction means more children and families remain at risk."

Dr. Tecla Sum Psusma, Director at MMUST University, echoed this urgency: "Our team of academics and doctors with extensive expertise in malaria research and epidemiology is ready to execute this critical study. The knowledge, infrastructure, and technology are in place—only funding stands in the way. Political decisions affecting USAID funding should not obstruct life-saving research. We call on the global health community, governments, and private donors to ensure this initiative moves forward."

We call on funding partners, global health leaders, and philanthropists to ensure this pioneering study proceeds. For more information or to discuss funding, please contact: sarah@immunify.life.

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