The Burkinabè government has announced the end of the Target Malaria project activities, which conducted research on genetically modified mosquitoes. The decision, formalized on August 22, 2025, comes in a context of repeated criticisms aimed at initiatives funded by the Gates Foundation in Africa.
Controversial projects worldwide
For several years, Bill Gates And its foundation finance research and public health programs in Africa and elsewhere. Whether agricultural experiments, vaccination projects or solutions to combat malaria, these initiatives are often welcomed by certain communities and NGOs. Beyond scientific debates, criticism relates to governance, transparency and technological dependence that these programs can induce. In several countries, votes demand more regulation and strict control of research activities involving modified living organizations.
It is in this climate that the Burkina Faso chose to end the Target Malaria experience. THE Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation ordered the closing of the installations and the sealing of the speakers containing transgenic mosquitoes. The samples must be destroyed under official supervision, in accordance with the protocols defined by the national authorities.
Local concerns about biotechnology
The Target Malaria project, carried out by an international consortium, aimed to reduce the spread of malaria thanks to genetically modified male mosquitoes, released in Souroukoudingan on August 11, 2025 after validation by the competent national agencies. However, several local associations, including the monitoring coalition on biotechnological activities, have expressed their reserves in the face of technology deemed uncertain and difficult to master. They fear in particular unpredictable effects on biodiversity and require reinforced follow -up.
The Burkinabè decision reflects a desire to favor prudence in a scientific field still in development, while responding to the concerns expressed by part of civil society.