By Roland Ike
The Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to President Bola Tinubu on Community Engagement (South East) Barr. Mrs Chioma Nwaeze, is leading the fight against malaria in the South East Zone of the country underscoring the Federal Government’s resolve to eradicate the scourge in the country.
Nwaeze, in a ceremony to mark the World Malaria Day in her home council– Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi state where Minister of Works, Sen. David Umahi also hails from, expressed gratitude to indigenes of the community for their commitment to eradicate malaria in the council.
The president’s aide said their collective efforts underscored a unified resolve to combat malaria and create a healthier, more resilient society.
“It is obvious that with the renewed determination and community support, the fight against malaria in Ohaozara LGA has been ignited, paving the way for a future, free from the burden of this preventable disease.
“I commend the stakeholders present which include Development Center Coordinators and legislative council members, for supporting the initiative.
“The collaborative efforts showcased during this year’s celebration sets a precedent for ongoing community-driven malaria eradication efforts which emphasises the collective resolve to combat this preventable disease.
“This event highlights the importance of community engagement, education, and proactive measures in the fight against malaria and sets a positive example for others to follow.”
Nwaeze described the event as successful, stressing that it was an impactful initiative that brought together various stakeholders to work towards a malaria-free future for the community.
“This attests to the preparedness of Mr. President, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to galvanise resources against malaria and similar diseases.
“It should be noted that Community Primary Health Care (CPHC) is one of his top priorities in rejuvenating the nation’s health sector.”
The event, themed “Let’s Change the Malaria Narrative Now,” was a collaborative effort between the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Chestrad Global, with the primary focus of engaging, protecting, integrating, and innovating solutions to combat the malaria.
The programme witnessed a remarkable turnout as community leaders and indigenes of the council converged at its headquarters in Obiozara to participate in the unprecedented initiative.
A dedicated team of healthcare professionals, including four doctors led by Dr. Spencer Okorie, nine nurses under the guidance of Mrs. Bridget Umeh, the HOD of Health in the council, a pharmacist among others were present to provide essential medical services.
The event witnessed the distribution of vital items such as malaria drugs for children and adults, mosquito nets, malaria rapid diagnostic tests (MRDT), and personal protective equipment(PPE).
Participants were educated on various aspects of malaria, including its transmission, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies..
The participants were encouraged to conduct environmental cleanup exercises to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds within their communities.
Highlights of the event included voluntary malaria testing on attendees to determine their infection status with those who tested positive promptly administered with treatment and counseled on proper medication usage, to prevent drug abuse.
