By Joyce Onuora, Abakaliki
The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (Southeast) Bar Mrs Chioma Nweze has expressed it’s readiness and commitment to eradicate malaria in Ohaozara Local Government Area, Ebonyi State
In a groundbreaking event marking the 2024 World Malaria Day, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (South East), spearheaded a transformative gathering in Ohaozara LGA .
The event, themed “Let’s Change the Malaria Narrative Now,” was a collaborative effort between the World Health Organization (WHO) and Chestrad Global, you with a primary focus on engaging, protecting, integrating, and innovating solutions to combat the scourge of malaria.
The program witnessed a remarkable turnout as community leaders and members from all corners of Ohaozara LGA converged at the LGA headquarters in Obiozara to participate in this unprecedented initiative.
A dedicated team of healthcare professionals, including four doctors led by Dr. Spencer Okorie, nine nurses under the guidance of Mrs. Umeh Bridgetexpressed gratitude to the community members for their enthusiasm and commitment tor eradicating malaria in Ohaozara LGA. The collective efforts showcased during the event underscored a unified resolve to combat malaria and create a healthier, more resilient society. With 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. Lebechi, the HOD of Health in Ohaozara LGA, as well as a health facilitator and a pharmacists, were present to provide essential medical services.
The distribution of vital resources 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. Engaging in an environmental cleanup exercise further reinforced the importance of eliminating mosquito breeding grounds within their communities.
One of the highlights of the event was the voluntary malaria testing conducted on attendees to determine their infection status. Those who tested positive were promptly administered treatment and counseled on proper medication usage to prevent drug abuse. Additionally, participants received financial support as a token of appreciation for their active participation in the program.
Hon. Barr. (Mrs) Chioma Nweze expressed gratitude to the community members for their enthusiasm and commitment to eradicating malaria in Ohaozara LGA. The collective efforts showcased during the event underscored a unified resolve to combat malaria and create a healthier, more resilient society. With 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.
The stakeholders present at the event, including Development Center coordinators and legislative council members, demonstrated their support for the initiative.
The collaborative efforts showcased during the 2024 World Malaria Day in Ohaozara LGA have set a precedent for ongoing community-driven malaria eradication efforts, emphasizing the collective resolve to combat this preventable disease.
The event highlighted the importance of community engagement, education, and proactive measures in the fight against malaria, setting a positive example for other regions to follow. Overall, the 2024 World Malaria Day in Ohaozara LGA was a successful and impactful initiative that brought together various stakeholders to work towards a malaria-free future for the community.
This speaks to the preparedness of Mr. President, His Excellency, President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in the health sector against malaria and similar diseases. Community Primary Health Care (CPHC) is one of his top priorities.
