Ghana’s quest to eliminate malaria has gained momentum, with the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP) targeting 12 Municipalities and Districts in the Volta and Oti Regions.
This move follows the World Health Organization’s (WHO) acknowledgment of Ghana’s significant progress in transitioning from malaria control to elimination.
To achieve this goal, Zoomlion, in collaboration with NMEP and the Ghana Health Service, has implemented measures to combat malaria in areas with increasing cases.
Mr. Isaac Ablormeti, Vector Control Director of Zoomlion in the Volta and Oti Regions, disclosed that the targeted Municipalities and Districts in the Volta Region include Keta, Ketu-North, Ketu-South, Ho, Hohoe, Anloga, Ho West, and South Tongu Districts.
Those in Oti include Kadjebi, Nkwanta South, Krachi West, and Krachi East Districts.
Zoomlion has introduced Larval Source Management, a strategy involving monthly disinfection of mosquito breeding sites in affected areas to prevent mosquito development.
This approach has proven effective in reducing malaria cases.
Mr. Ablormeti urged the various Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to continue supporting the efforts of Zoomlion, NMEP, Ghana Health Service, and other partners in the fight against malaria.
Ghana’s progress in malaria control is evident in the improved malaria testing rate, which has increased from 38% in 2012 to 98% in 2023, according to the Ghana Health Service.
Additionally, malaria prevalence has decreased significantly from 27.5% in 2011 to 8.6% in 2022, with malaria-related deaths dropping from 2,799 in 2012 to 146 in 2023.
The continued support of stakeholders is crucial in sustaining this momentum and achieving the ultimate goal of malaria elimination.
