In a significant step towards improving public health, the Enugu State Government has launched a comprehensive malaria elimination initiative, offering free testing and treatment to residents. This initiative is a key part of Governor Peter Mbah’s commitment to combat malaria, a major public health issue in Nigeria.
The program, organized in collaboration with the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP) and the Excellence Community Education Welfare Scheme (ECEWS), received backing from the Islamic Development Bank’s Lives and Livelihood Fund Project. The event took place at the Uwani Health Centre in Enugu South Local Government Area.
Targeting the most vulnerable populations, this initiative focuses on providing malaria diagnosis and treatment to children under five and pregnant women. During the launch, State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Emmanuel Obi, emphasized that the goal is to reduce the current 24 percent prevalence of severe malaria in the state, with the support of collaborative partners.
Dr. Obi highlighted the dire consequences of malaria in Nigeria, noting it as a leading cause of illness and mortality among children under five. With a prevalence rate of 23 percent in this age group, the urgency behind this initiative is clear. The last malaria elimination effort in Enugu occurred in 2014 and 2015, but with this new initiative, every healthcare facility in the state now has free test kits and anti-malaria medications readily available.
Appreciating Governor Mbah's efforts, Dr. Obi pointed to the IMPACTS Project, launched in 2018, which aims to tackle malaria across various Nigerian states and began operations in Enugu in 2021. He also warned healthcare providers against charging fees for malaria testing and treatment, assuring the public that measures are in place to ensure these services remain free.
In encouraging residents to utilize primary healthcare centers, he stated, "They’re there for you. If you go there and see nobody, report to us. We will find out why the officers are not there." He also underscored the ongoing health insurance programs at these facilities, which further enhance access to free medical care.
Moreover, Dr. Obi stressed the importance of environmental management in reducing malaria incidence, emphasizing that tackling the disease requires a holistic approach.
Dr. Nnenna Ogbulafor, National Coordinator of the Malaria Elimination Programme, reiterated Nigeria's troubling position as the country with the highest malaria burden, accounting for 27 percent of global cases and 30 percent of malaria-related deaths. She expressed concern over Enugu State's prevalence rate of 24 percent, which exceeds the national average.
With the inception workshop for the program already underway, Dr. Ogbulafor urged residents to take full advantage of the free services offered to combat this debilitating disease. By working together with local health initiatives, the goal of significantly lowering malaria rates in Enugu can be achieved. The time to act is now, support the initiative and help pave the way for a malaria-free future for all.
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