Abstract / Summary
ABSTRACT Background and Aims Malaria remains a major global health challenge, with the World Health Organization (WHO) African Region accounting for the overwhelming majority of malaria cases and deaths worldwide. This narrative review examines the contribution of community‐centric malaria prevention approaches to malaria elimination pathways and their broader global health implications in Sub‐Saharan Africa. Methods A narrative literature review was conducted using PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and WHO databases. Literature published between January 2000 and December 2025 was identified using combinations of keywords including “malaria elimination,” “community engagement,” “community health workers,” “vector control,” “malaria prevention,” and “Sub‐Saharan Africa.” Eligible evidence included peer‐reviewed studies, implementation research, policy documents, and global malaria reports addressing community‐based prevention, surveillance, diagnosis, treatment, and elimination strategies. Findings were synthesized thematically. Results The review identified community health workers, community‐directed vector control, health education, environmental management, ITN promotion, IRS participation, SMC delivery, IPTp uptake, and digital surveillance as key drivers of malaria prevention. Community‐centered approaches improved intervention acceptance, early diagnosis, treatment access, surveillance capacity, and local ownership of malaria programs. Emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, geospatial mapping, and genomic surveillance, provide opportunities for precision malaria control when integrated with community systems. Conclusion Community‐centered malaria prevention represents a critical pathway toward sustainable elimination in Sub‐Saharan Africa. Strengthening community empowerment, integrating scientific innovations with local knowledge, and improving health‐system partnerships are essential for accelerating malaria elimination and advancing global health equity.