Hassan Juana Koroma in Pujehun
The Pujehun District Health Management Team, in collaboration with the Praise Foundation and several other organizations, came together on Thursday, April 25, 2024, to observe this year's World Malaria Day. The event, held at the District Health Management Team Conference Hall in Old Town, Pujehun, was attended by esteemed individuals, including Paramount Chiefs, women, youths, pupils, teachers, and members of the press.
Foday Brima, the Malaria Focal Person of the District Health Management Team (DHMT) in Pujehun, delivered an enlightening overview of World Malaria Day, emphasizing the critical role of advancing health in the fight against malaria. He stressed the need for sustained efforts to combat the disease and enhance healthcare services throughout the district. Mr. Brima highlighted the distribution of treated bed nets as part of their mass distribution campaign and the recent launch of the malaria vaccine for children under six months, expressing satisfaction with the steady progress. He also appealed to the recipients to care for the provided bed nets.
Kongo Ellie, the District Environmental Superintendent, underscored the significance of World Malaria Day and reaffirmed the ministry's commitment to eradicating malaria and improving overall health outcomes within the community. Ellie expressed deep gratitude to the Government of Sierra Leone and other partners for their unwavering support in the battle against malaria.
The commemoration raised awareness about preventive measures and control strategies for malaria while promoting community engagement and effective resource mobilization to combat the disease. The event highlighted the collective efforts of diverse stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, community leaders, and the local population, in the ongoing fight against malaria.
During his keynote address, Dr. Ian Wurie, the Medical Superintendent of Pujehun Government Hospital, emphasized that World Malaria Day is observed annually on April 25th to raise global awareness about malaria, prevention, and control. The day provides an invaluable opportunity for governments, organizations, and communities worldwide to unite and mobilize efforts toward eliminating this life-threatening disease. Dr. Wurie shared alarming statistics, stating that in 2021 alone, 429 million people worldwide were affected by malaria, with approximately 600,000 fatalities. He commended the government's serious efforts in malaria control and stressed the district's commitment to advancing health and improving the local population's well-being. The district remains steadfast in its mission to provide quality healthcare services and eradicate malaria in Sierra Leone.
Speaking on behalf of the participants, Rev. Francis Tucker sincerely appreciated the ministry's proactive role in ensuring malaria eradication. He also urged all stakeholders to maintain cleanliness in their communities and environments as a preventive measure.
The commemoration of World Malaria Day in Pujehun District showcased the district's dedication to combating malaria and promoting health equity, gender equality, and human rights. Through awareness campaigns, the distribution of treated bed nets, the introduction of a malaria vaccine, and the collective efforts of various stakeholders, Pujehun District is making significant strides toward eradicating malaria and improving overall health outcomes.
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