By: Abdulai Sankoh
The Ministry of Health and the National Malaria Control Programme has held a press conference to provide a comprehensive update on the current malaria situation across the country at the NMCP Conference room, New England Ville, Freetown. The briefing, led by Harold Thomas, Programme Manager, Health Education Department at the Ministry of Health.
In his opening remarks, Harold Thomas began the session by acknowledging the efforts of healthcare workers across the country, stating that this year’s theme for World Malaria Day which is “Malaria Ends with us, Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite.” He urged everyone to take ownership on the fight against malaria in Sierra Leone, more so when it challenges us to look beyond what has been done, and in envisage what can be done to earnest innovation and strengthen community leadership and reignite the political will needed to end malaria once and for all.
“Today as we gathered here to celebrate the remarkable achievement in the fight against malaria, from life-saving diagnostics to treatment and new innovations, including the current malaria vaccine digital tools that are changing our response to malaria. We are faced with persistent challenges, especially the underfunding in health systems, climate driven transformation patterns and treat of drug and insecticide resistance’’ he stated.
He concluded by stating that malaria kills about 600.000 thousand lives every year globally, especially children under two years with malaria are prone to death of malaria if not treated earlier can die within 72 hours. He appreciated the critical role of the media in telling the story, especially to educate and to advocate through their platforms. He therefore, urged them to cascade the message by inspiring others.
The Malaria and Pregnancy Lead at the National Malaria Control Programme, Irene M. Sesay revealed in her presentation that malaria contributed to 20% of child mortality in 2024 and that they have distributed enough insecticide-treated bed nets in high-risk zones and will start-up the indoor residual spraying at various correctional centers and mental homes across the country because they are not allow to supply insecticide-treated bed nets to inmates and mental disorder individuals because of security reason.
“Our community health workers are always on full alert nationwide to ensure early diagnosis and treatment,” she stated.
In her statement, the Malaria Technical Advisor at WHO, Dr. Ganda highlighted their commitment to ensure no one die as a result of malaria, and they have a target to meet by 2030. She urged the Fourth Estate to educate the public through their platforms and encourage citizens to report early at the various treatment centres in the country, more so when the test is free at all government hospitals and community health units in the country.
He also noted that the World Health Organization (WHO) and other international partners have committed support to help contain the situation.
“Malaria remains a preventable and treatable disease,” Harold Thomas stated. “Together we can reduce its burden and save lives.”
