Burkina Faso’s military government has ordered an immediate halt to Target Malaria, a Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation-funded project releasing genetically modified mosquitoes to combat malaria, which kills over 500,000 Africans annually. The decision, announced on August 22, 2025, reflects growing scrutiny of foreign-funded initiatives under the country’s junta.

The government communique directed Target Malaria, a consortium of over 150 African and Western researchers, to cease all activities. Operating in Burkina Faso since 2012, the project conducted its first mosquito release in 2019 in Bana village and another in August 2025. The initiative aims to reduce malaria transmission by introducing sterile male mosquitoes, with Burkina Faso reporting over eight million cases and 16,146 deaths in 2023 among its 24 million residents.

“This technology is highly controversial and poses ethical challenges. We are saying that we should prioritize safe alternatives,” said Ali Tapsoba, spokesperson for a coalition opposing the project. Critics, including local civil society groups, have raised concerns about environmental and health risks, amplified by social media disinformation campaigns linked to the government.

Target Malaria stated it has complied with national legislation and “remains ready to cooperate.” Supporters argue the project offers a scientific approach to a public health crisis, while opponents, including the junta led by Captain Ibrahim Traore since his 2022 coup, view it as foreign interference. The suspension follows the revocation of licenses for 21 international NGOs in June and July 2025.

The decision leaves the future of malaria control in Burkina Faso uncertain, as the country grapples with balancing innovation and sovereignty.