Rotarians Against Malaria

Rotarians Against Malaria

Rotarians Against Malaria (RAM): A Lifesaving Rotary Initiative

Rotarians Against Malaria (RAM) is a flagship program of Rotary Australia World Community Service, bringing together volunteers across Australia and our region to help eliminate one of the world’s most preventable diseases.

Malaria once affected vast parts of the globe. In the early 1900s, it was a global pandemic, placing an enormous burden on communities and health systems. While significant progress has been made, malaria remains a major cause of illness and death in many developing countries.

Encouragingly, global efforts have delivered real results. Just 15 years ago, malaria claimed the life of a child every 30 seconds. Thanks to coordinated international action under the Millennium Development Goals, deaths have fallen by around 60 percent. Now, under the Sustainable Development Goals, the target is even more ambitious: a further 90 percent reduction in cases and deaths by 2030.

Where RAM Works

RAM focuses its efforts in our region, supporting programs in:

  • Australia
  • Papua New Guinea (in partnership with RAM PNG)
  • Solomon Islands
  • Timor-Leste

These programs are grounded in practical, community-led solutions including malaria education, prevention strategies, and support for local health systems.

Programs Making a Difference

RAM delivers a range of targeted initiatives designed to create lasting impact:

  • Adopt a Village – supporting grassroots malaria prevention
  • Chasing Malaria – engaging younger generations in awareness and action
  • Healthy Villages – improving overall community health outcomes
  • Malaria Awareness Day – building public understanding
  • PhD Scholarships – supporting research and innovation

These initiatives reflect Rotary’s commitment to sustainable, evidence-based solutions.

Partnerships Driving Progress

Collaboration is central to RAM’s success. Key partnerships include:

  • The Griffith University malaria vaccine project, supported by Rotary District 9640
  • Rotaract Australia, engaging young leaders in the fight against malaria

Beyond Rotary, global partnerships continue to expand reach and impact. For example, Bill Gates has partnered with World Vision to distribute thousands of mosquito nets to families in need—simple interventions that save lives.

Volunteer Opportunities

RAM also offers unique opportunities for Rotarians and Rotaractors to get involved directly. Volunteer trips to program locations allow participants—particularly those with medical or governance expertise—to contribute on the ground and witness the impact firsthand.

How You Can Help

Eliminating malaria is within reach, but it requires continued effort and support. You can get involved by:

  • Supporting RAM initiatives through your club
  • Raising awareness in your community
  • Participating in volunteer opportunities
  • Staying informed through RAM resources and updates

Together, Rotary members are helping to create a future where malaria is no longer a threat.