By Isatou Fofana
The Gambia, through the Ministry of Health, has joined the rest of the world to commemorate World Malaria Day. On this day, the Ministry reflects on the efforts made with collaborative partners in combating this deadly disease; from distributing insecticide-treated bed nets, to promoting preventative measures to reducing the burden of malaria in the country.
In his welcome remarks, the Director of Health Promotion and Education, Michael Mendy underscored the importance of the day, noting that it calls on people to join forces to stop the spread of malaria disease. He pointed out the urgent need to ensure continuous and equitable delivery of medical services to all those who need them.
“On World Malaria Day, we commemorate the progress made in the fight against this deadly disease and reiterate our commitment to achieving a malaria-free world,” he added.
Mr Mendy went on: “Through awareness campaigns, education, and access to effective treatment and prevention methods, we can continue to reduce the burden of malaria on communities around the world.”
The WHO Country Representative, Dr. Jane Maina reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to making continual efforts in ensuring that all individuals at risk of malaria have access to life-saving interventions; such as insecticide-treated bed nets and effective treatment.
She affirmed that World Malaria Day serves as a reminder of the progress they have made in the fight against malaria, but also highlights the urgent need for sustained efforts to eliminate the disease once and for all.
“As we commemorate World Malaria Day, let us remember the lives that have been lost to this disease and recommit ourselves to achieving our goal of a malaria-free world”, she noted.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Health, Mr. Momodou T Nyassi, Director of Health Services said this year’s theme:Health gives the opportunity to raise awareness in the fight against malaria for those most affected by the disease such as pregnant women and children.
He took the opportunity to recognise the significant support and contributions of all stakeholders working towards improving access, equity and gender mainstreaming in all malaria interventions.
World Malaria Day is an annual observance held on April 25 to raise awareness of the global effort to control and ultimately eradicate malaria.
According to the recent World Malaria Report, there were 249 million cases of malaria in 2022 compared to 244 million cases in 2021. The estimated number of malaria deaths stood at 608 000 in 2022 compared to 610 000 in 2021.
The WHO African Region continues to carry a disproportionately high share of the global malaria burden. The Gambia Government, supported by partners like WHO, has made enormous strides towards eradicating malaria in the country.
Four African countries accounted for just over half of all malaria deaths worldwide: Nigeria (26.8%), the Democratic Republic of the Congo (12.3%), Uganda (5.1%) and Mozambique (4.2%)
