Malaria remains a significant public health concern in Ghana, with over 1,500 recorded deaths from 2018 to 2022. Dr. Kezia Malm, head of the National Malaria Control Programme, applauds the progress made in reducing malaria-related fatalities in the country.
In 2021, Africa reported more malaria-related deaths than any other region globally, with children under five being the most vulnerable group. Despite the reduction in deaths recorded in Ghana, the number of malaria cases has been on the rise, reaching 438,000 in 2022 from 350,000 in 2018.
Dr. Malm outlined the program’s three objectives, which include achieving near-zero malaria deaths, bringing 21 districts to the elimination point, and reducing malaria cases by 50%. The ultimate goal is to eliminate malaria deaths by 2028.
The Ecobank Foundation, in collaboration with Ecobank Ghana, Speak Up Africa, and The Multimedia Group, launched the “Zero Malaria Business Leadership Initiative” to engage corporate organizations in the fight against malaria. The initiative aims to mobilize support and resources to combat the disease effectively.
Dr. Daniel Kasser-Tee, Head of Marketing and Communications at Ecobank Ghana, highlighted the far-reaching impact of malaria on various aspects of society, including work, education, and overall health. The initiative, supported by an initial seed capital of $120,000, has already made tangible contributions by procuring essential equipment such as a vehicle, digital microscopes, and electronic tablets.
Dr. Kofi Nsiah Poku, Chairman of the Kina Group and a champion of the initiative in Ghana, expressed optimism about raising funds for the malaria control program and developing a bivalent vaccine. The donations received by the Ghana Health Service are seen as crucial in strengthening the country’s efforts towards malaria elimination.
As part of the collective effort to combat malaria, the coalition of companies in Ghana aims to raise substantial funds to support ongoing initiatives. With strategic partnerships and collaborative approaches, the country is hopeful of making significant progress in the fight against malaria and ultimately achieving the goal of zero malaria deaths.
