WORLD MALARIA DAY: Progressional Achievements Recorded In Fight Against Malaria.... FG

"There has to be an increased collaborative effort and strengthening of the fight against the scourge, if the nation must win the fight." FG

Over the years, Nigeria has recorded a very significant progress in the fight against malaria, one of the highest killer diseases in Africa.

This much was confirmed by Nigeria's Ministry of Health during the global day set aside as "World Malaria Day" usually held every 25th of April.

The Federal Ministry of Health however believes that there has to be an increased collaborative effort and strengthening of the fight against the scourge, if the nation must win the fight.

Stating this on Thursday in Abuja, the nation's capital is Dr. Godwin Ntadon,
National Coordinator, National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP), during an event to mark the 2024 World Malaria Day with its theme; “Accelerating The Fight Against Malaria For A More Equitable World”.

Dr Ntadon, at the event, disclosed that plans are underway to review and launch new approach to the fight against malaria. He added that the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, alongside key stakeholders and other partners involved in the fight against malaria would be part of the review at ensuring the nation achieves the right results.

Speaking also at the event, which held at the Rockview Royale Hotels Abuja, Dr. Walter Kazadi Molumbo, Country Representative, World Health Organization (WHO), who was represented by the Deputy Country Representatice Dr. Alex Chimbaru, Deputy Country Representative, in his remarks, said the theme of the event resonates deeply with the ongoing efforts to combat malaria.

“This year, let us collectively recommit to changing the narrative and ushering in a new era of progress and equity in our battle against malaria.

“Over the years, malaria has disproportionately affected the most vulnerable populations, namely, pregnant women, infants, children under five years of age, refugees, migrants, and internally displaced people, perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequity.

“Climate change and humanitarian emergencies, including natural disasters and conflicts in malaria-endemic countries, are displacing populations, making them vulnerable to the disease. This reduces opportunities for accessing preventive and treatment services by these groups thus hindering progress on achieving the vision of a malaria-free world.”

He insisted that the fight against malaria is not just a health issue, but a matter of social justice and human rights. “By accelerating our efforts to expand access to life-saving interventions, improve health systems, and address the underlying determinants of malaria transmission, we can create a more equitable world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. We also need to bring the communities in the planning and prevention of malaria.

“Let’s change the narrative now and work together to overcome the challenges that stand in the way of malaria elimination. Through collective action, innovation, and unwavering commitment, we can achieve our shared goal of a malaria-free future for all.”

He suggested development of surveillance, monitoring and evaluation systems to generate reliable and sub-national data to target interventions and adapt services to the most at-risk groups, accelerating progress toward achieving the SDGs.

Representatives from UNICEF, Bill and Melinda Gate Foundation, and several other partners made several pledges towards the fight against malaria in Nigeria.