Despite considerable global efforts to control and eliminate malaria, the disease still remains one of the most significant public health challenges in endemic regions worldwide. In order to combat malaria in endemic regions, community-based malaria control approaches are progressively emerging as an important strategy, highlighting their effectiveness in reducing transmission rates - malaria prevention, early detection, and treatment, and improving access to care at the local level. This article explores the role of community-based approaches in strengthening malaria control efforts in endemic regions, and reviews various strategies that empower local populations to take a proactive role in combating malaria. Emphasis is laid on local leadership, the integration of culturally relevant health education, community participation, environmental interventions, and healthcare delivery within local communities, as well as the role of local engagement in promoting behavior change, and enhancing long-term sustainability of malaria interventions. Evidence from various endemic regions suggests that CBMCPs can lead to improved access to health services, increased awareness, and reduced malaria transmission rates. Challenges associated with these approaches are outlined such as inadequate funding, training, limited healthcare infrastructure, and community participation, and recommendations for scaling up local efforts to ensure sustainable impact are provided. This review synthesizes existing literature on community-based malaria control, highlights best practices, and provides community-focused approaches that are vital for bringing up solutions in the fight against malaria and thereby achieving the global malaria elimination goals.
