WHO: African countries should strengthen cross border collaboration to control Malaria

As the world
marks Malaria Day, African countries have been urged to strengthen cross border
collaboration in the fight against malaria.

In his
message, World Health Organization Regional Director for Africa Dr. Matshidiso
Mdeti said countries should allocate more resources in the fight against
Malaria.

“To build on
the gains we have made, I urge countries to allocate resources to work across
sector and strengthen cross border collaboration to control Malaria,” said Dr.
Mdeti.

The director
added that countries should not forget common diseases such as Malaria, even as
they fight the global coronavirus pandemic.

Malaria
kills over 400,000 people across the world, and 94% of these deaths comes from
Africa, with 67% accounting to vulnerable groups and children under five years
of age.

Africa
recorded over 213 million Malaria cases in 2018, accounting to 93% of the world
cases.

In 2019, the
world’s first Malaria vaccine (RTS, S) pilot tests were launched in the
countries of Kenya, Ghana and Malawi, with over 275,000 children receiving the
vaccine.

“This action
is commendable but we are failing short on the 2020 milestone of 40% reduction
in cases of deaths,” warned the director.

President
Uhuru Kenyatta, who chairs the African Leaders Malaria Alliance (ALMA) has
advocated for high level engagement at the national, regional and continental
levels on malaria commitments and goals.

The president
called upon African leaders and governments to incorporate youths and
technology in the fight against Malaria.

“I call upon
African head of states and governments to leverage on data technology to target
efforts more efficiently and effectively, empowering youths to participate in
Malaria control initiative, accelerating mobilization to domestic resources and
engaging communities across the continent in the fight against Malaria,” said President
Uhuru.

Health
Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe in his message, said the government is committed
to ensuring continuity of health services in its facilities and at community
level.

“The safety
of our health workers and client is paramount since any disruption is essential
health services can have a serious impact on rates of illness and deaths from
common diseases like Malaria,” said CS Mutahi.

The theme
for this year is ‘Zero Malaria starts with me’.