The World Health Organisation (WHO) has estimated 249 million malaria cases in 85 malaria endemic countries and Nigeria contributes 1.3 million cases of malaria, which makes the country 3rd in the world.
WHO Representative in Nigeria, Dr Walter Kazadi Molumbo, who was represented by Deputy County Representative, Dr Alex Chimbaru, said this Thursday to commemorate World Malaria Day 2024, which was organised by the Federal Ministry of Health, World Health Organisation and other partners in Abuja.
The theme for World Malaria Day 2024, “Accelerating the Fight Against Malaria for a More Equitable World,” resonates deeply with the ongoing efforts to combat this pervasive disease.
Dr Molumbo stated that we should collectively commit to changing the narrative and ushering in a new era of progress and equity in our battle against malaria.
“Over the years, malaria has disproportionately affected the most vulnerable populations, namely, pregnant women, infants, children under 5 years of age, refugees, migrants, and internally displaced people, perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequity,” he said.
Dr Mulombo added that climate change and humanitarian emergencies, including natural disasters and conflicts in malaria-endemic countries, are displacing populations, making them vulnerable to the disease.
“This reduces opportunities for accessing preventive and treatment services by these groups thus hindering progress on achieving the vision of a malaria-free world,” he said.
