However, The Gambia is one of the few countries in Sub-Saharan Africa that made a giant effort in reducing malaria cases, thanks to the aggressive campaign that the country has put up to stem the tide of malaria. This, to some extent, has helped significantly in the reduction of malaria cases in the country.
However, despite gains registered, there is no room for complacency in ensuring zero malaria cases in the country.
For instance, malaria vaccine is a breakthrough for child health and malaria control. These vaccines are now available and being used in 19 countries in Africa. WHO is also committed to working with countries and partners to support the rollout of malaria vaccines so more at-risk populations can benefit from this additional malaria prevention as rapidly as possible.
However, there still lies challenges in totaling eradicating this communicable disease.
It is indeed worthy to note that The Gambia is one of the six countries in the World Health Organization African Region that has achieved the 2020 milestones of reducing malaria cases and deaths by 40% compared to 2015.
This figure speaks volume of the country’s continued advocacy and putting sound policies in fighting this disease.
Globally, in 2022, there were an estimated 249 million malaria cases and 608 000 malaria deaths across 85 countries. The heaviest burden is in WHO's African Region where 95% of malaria cases occur and half a million children die from malaria each year. These data make malaria one of the continent's biggest early childhood killers, even though death rates have declined over the past two decades.
The Ministry of Health through the National Malaria Control Programme recently staged a presser to update journalist on the progresses made and challenges that lies ahead of global commemorations marking World Malaria Day, which is slated for today in Brufut.
Essentially, the day is set aside annually to galvanise support and raise awareness about malaria as a communicable disease.
On this day, the global malaria community joins hands to underscore the importance of prevention, treatment and research as well as foster a sense of shared responsibility towards the journey to a malaria free world.
We therefore commend the officials at the Ministry and key partners for their ongoing surveillance and fight against this deadly disease. As we commemorate this day, let’s broaden and amplify key messages and increase discussions on issues relating to malaria prevention, treatment and care. It might be a daunting challenge, but together we can achieve our target goals.
Let’s always remember the burden this disease cause to humanity. But through sound and aggressive campaigns, we can achieve zero malaria case in The Gambia.