OMUTHIYA - The health ministry’s malaria ambassador for the Oshikoto region Vilho Nuunyango is determined to eradicate it in the region, despite facing several challenges.
He expressed this commitment during a courtesy visit to the office of Oshikoto governor Penda ya Ndakolo on Wednesday.
“We want to fulfil our vision of eliminating malaria in the whole of Oshikoto by the end of this year,” said Nuunyango.
Providing an overview of the situation in the region, the health ministry’s regional chief environmental health practitioner Padelia Ngenokesho said a total of 11 000 malaria cases were reported in the entire country last year, with Oshikoto contributing 300 cases. Meanwhile, a total of 186 cases have been reported in the region this year.
She pointed out that some cases originated from people within the region, while others were imported from friends and relatives in Angola.
Ngenokesho said 78 malaria cases were traced back to Angola, and emphasised the need for the government to exercise caution regarding the migration of people into the country, and ensure they receive treatment to prevent the spread of malaria.
She commended the ministry for its efforts in treating malaria patients, and consistently investigating malaria cases. She also encouraged the use of mosquito nets, saying they are strategically designed to prevent the spread of the disease.
“We have learned that certain individuals use mosquito nets to catch fish, and build their poultry shelters. We discourage them from doing this,” said Ngenokesho.
She also called upon local authorities in the region to take ownership and assist the ministry in preventing malaria, and spreading awareness.
“Malaria does not affect the ministry alone, but whole communities. Local authorities should provide services to curb malaria, while the ministry is catering to villages and other rural areas,” she continued.
The ministry is working to eliminate cases by adopting various policies and strategies to accelerate the fight against malaria.
“We want to be the first region to eliminate malaria by using different divisions in our ministry, as well as [for] pastors to create awareness and eventually eliminate these cases,” observed Ngenokesho.
- Nampa