Researchers from Nigeria, Ghana, Gambia, and Senegal gathered in Lagos on Tuesday for a pivotal regional meeting under the Emerging Genomics Selection and Antimalarial Tolerance (EGSAT) project. The meeting focused on combating the growing issue of antimalarial drug resistance in West Africa, a region heavily impacted by malaria.
The EGSAT project, supported by the European Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership, is a multi-country initiative aimed at tackling the escalating problem of drug resistance in malaria parasites across West Africa.
Professor Alfred Ngwa, the lead principal investigator for the EGSAT project and a researcher with the Medical Research Council Unit in Gambia, expressed concerns about the rise in drug resistance. He noted that some malaria parasites have become resistant to commonly used treatments, leading to scenarios where patients may require multiple rounds of treatment.
Ngwa highlighted the EGSAT project’s goals to assess the prevalence and distribution of drug-resistant parasites in West Africa and evaluate their impact on public health. The project is focused on monitoring these challenges, investigating the effectiveness of current treatments, and exploring alternative therapeutic options.
The initiative also includes surveillance efforts to track the movement of resistant parasites across borders. Despite advancements in new drug combinations, some regions are reporting resistance to these newer treatments as well.
Ngwa stressed the importance of regional collaboration in malaria control efforts. The project’s scope spans four countries, with researchers working together to understand and mitigate the spread of resistant parasites. This cross-border approach is crucial for developing effective malaria control strategies on a larger scale.
The persistence of high malaria transmission rates and the emergence of drug-resistant parasites complicate efforts to achieve eradication by 2030. Ngwa emphasized the need for sustained efforts, increased funding, and cross-country collaboration to advance malaria control.
Dr. Ajibayi Olusola, a molecular biologist at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, highlighted the focus of the EGSAT project in Nigeria. The project is evaluating the efficacy of antimalarial drugs, particularly in regions with high malaria prevalence. Specific zones in Nigeria, including Lagos in the southwest and Ilorin in the north-central region, have been selected for intensive study.
Olusola explained that the project is assessing the performance of Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy (ACT), which includes Artemisinin and partner drugs, against local malaria parasite populations. The research has uncovered significant findings about the diversity and complexity of malaria parasites in Nigeria, revealing unique characteristics compared to other participating countries.
He identified self-medication and the indiscriminate use of antimalarial drugs as major contributors to drug resistance. Many individuals in Nigeria and other parts of Africa purchase antimalarial medications over the counter without proper diagnostic testing, which fosters the development of resistant parasite strains.
Olusola emphasized that the EGSAT project aims to address these issues by promoting accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Conducting tests before administering antimalarial drugs is essential for preventing resistance and improving treatment outcomes.
“The EGSAT project’s findings will play a crucial role in shaping future malaria control strategies,” Olusola said. “By identifying and addressing drug resistance, researchers aim to develop more effective treatments and interventions. The regional focus provides valuable insights for public health policymakers.”
Dr. Oluwagbenga Aina, Deputy Director at the Biochemistry Department of the NIMR, expressed skepticism about achieving the 2030 malaria eradication target, noting Nigeria’s current status as a control level rather than pre-elimination. Despite significant efforts since the adoption of the ACT policy in 2005, he observed a troubling increase in malaria burden compared to previous years.
Aina highlighted the importance of the EGSAT project’s research and collaboration in addressing the growing issue of drug resistance. Through comprehensive studies and cross-border cooperation, the project aims to develop effective strategies for controlling malaria and ultimately achieving eradication.
