The first independent review of the Regional Artemisinin-resistance Initiative (RAI) grant took place between September and November 2015. The final report findings and recommendations were presented and discussed at the last RSC meeting on 19 November 2015 in Hanoi, Viet Nam.

The review included three components: governance/implementation arrangements of RAI, review of program results/progress to date, and an analysis of the epidemiological / drug resistance situation in the region. A review team of independent experts visited all five RAI countries and conducted interviews with key stakeholders and implementers of the RAI, as well as visit field-level activities in each country.

The review concludes that the RAI is making positive contributions to the malaria elimination effort in the region, through the expansion of malaria interventions to high-risk populations and the trialing of innovative strategies, in particular.

Aggressive efforts to eliminate malaria, in light of the still-urgent threat of artemisinin (and now multidrug) resistance, will need to continue and be supported by adequate levels of financing, technical support, and coordination between partners at all levels.