By Olawale Asake
In a concerted effort to curb the scourge of malaria, the Oyo State Ministry of Health has organised a community outreach and awareness programme focused on prevention and control of the disease.
The event, held at the Olorunda-Aba Primary Health Centre in Lagelu Local Government Area, formed part of activities marking this year’s World Malaria Day.
The programme brought together government officials, development partners, public health experts, community leaders, as well as expectant and nursing mothers to evaluate progress made and identify gaps in the fight against malaria.
Speaking at the event, Oyo State Commissioner for Health, Dr Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, reiterated the government’s commitment to tackling malaria, describing it as a serious health concern that must not be taken lightly.
She explained that the state government has continued to make testing and treatment freely accessible to residents as part of efforts to reduce the disease burden.
Dr Ajetunmobi stressed the need for stronger support and collective action, urging residents to maintain a clean environment and seek prompt medical attention at the onset of symptoms.
In his remarks, Community Leader, Alhaji Abdulfatai Oloyede, commended the government for intensifying awareness campaigns on malaria prevention.
Alhaji Oloyede, however, appealed for the provision of adequate malaria drugs across public health facilities in the state.
Some beneficiaries of the free insecticide-treated nets distributed at the event expressed appreciation, noting that the programme had also enlightened them on effective preventive measures.
Also speaking, Oyo State Malaria Programme Manager, Mrs Foluke Adeyemo, advised residents to avoid self-medication and instead visit health centres for proper testing and diagnosis whenever they experience fever.
Mrs Adeyemo lauded the government and the Ministry of Health for implementing measures aimed at drastically reducing malaria cases, including the recruitment of personnel and renovation of health facilities.
Representatives of the World Health Organization, Malaria Consortium, Civil Society Organisations, as well as community and traditional leaders, were present at the event.
This year’s theme for World Malaria Day is: “Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can, Now We Must.”
Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle
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