The Multimedia Group has received recognition for its noteworthy involvement in the African malaria epidemic.
The Multimedia Group, a major participant in the Ecobank PLC and SpeakUp Africa-led Zero Malaria Business Leaders Initiative, was recognized for having made a significant contribution to the reduction of malaria cases in all African countries.
Malaria killed more than 608,000 people worldwide in 2022. Although there were 151 documented deaths in Ghana, nearly all 33 million people there are thought to be in significant danger.
Under the Ministry of Health’s auspices, Ecobank Ghana established the Zero Malaria Business Leadership Initiative (ZMBLI) in 2023 in partnership with SpeakUp Africa, the National Malaria Elimination Programme, and other stakeholders.
All of the Multimedia Group’s airtime since coming together has been devoted to programming about preventing, treating, and eliminating malaria.
An event at the Ecobank Headquarters in Lome, Togo, honored several people and organizations for their exceptional contributions to the continent’s efforts to eradicate malaria.
Acknowledging the group’s dedication to public interest journalism and the fight against malaria, Mr. Francis Fiifi Koomson, General Manager for the Multimedia Group’s JOY Brands, collected the award on their behalf.
“Our dedication to serving the public interest through journalism remains unwavering. This recognition strengthens our resolve to combat a disease that continues to claim lives,” stated Mr. Koomson.
“Our core values of leadership, integrity, and community guide our work.”
The Ecobank Foundation’s Director of Operations, Elisa Desbordes, emphasized the need to raise money to eradicate malaria while pointing out the serious effects the illness has on communities and companies.
“Business leaders and companies have a crucial role to play in supporting their communities and safeguarding their workforce. Malaria affects productivity and employee well-being,” Desbordes said.
“As leaders, it is our responsibility to utilize our influence to drive malaria elimination efforts and protect our communities.”
The awards event was held in conjunction with a stakeholder meeting to identify strategies for securing funding for initiatives targeted at eliminating malaria.