More than 1,500 individuals across 15 communities in Bayelsa State have gained from the recently inaugurated Zero Malaria Initiative spearheaded by the Rotary Club of Maple Grove, based in the United States.
This year-long campaign, organized by the Minnesota-based Rotary Club of Maple Grove in partnership with the Rotary Club of Yenagoa Towers and the Sagbama Primary Healthcare Authority, offers complimentary malaria screening and treatment, distribution of insecticide-treated bed nets, as well as monitoring of blood pressure and glucose levels, alongside provision of medicated eyewear.
Mrs. Jennifer Borel, the project director and assistant governor of Rotary District 5950 in the USA, emphasized that the program prioritizes malaria prevention over mere treatment.
She explained, “Rotary International focuses on seven key areas, including disease prevention and treatment. Bayelsa State was chosen due to its swampy terrain and frequent flooding, conditions that foster mosquito proliferation.”
“These communities face a high incidence of malaria, and I felt compelled to introduce this initiative here to help reduce fatalities caused by this life-threatening illness.”
“In 2022, a comparable project in Patani, Delta State, led to a significant drop in infections and zero mortality, thanks to comprehensive education and awareness campaigns. This success inspired us to expand the program to the riverine regions of Bayelsa State.”
Mrs. Borel expressed optimism about the project’s impact, citing the strong community engagement so far. She added that trained volunteers from within the communities will continue outreach efforts, educating residents and distributing treated nets and antimalarial drugs to remote locations.
Anthony Olikagu, the district governor-elect of Rotary District 9141, which covers Rivers, Delta, Edo, and Bayelsa states, highlighted that the initiative transcends treatment by aiming to preserve families from the devastating effects of malaria.
“Malaria robs people of their happiness, and I am thrilled that this program will restore hope to thousands of households. We owe gratitude to Rotary International for bringing this global grant project to our local communities. Given the area’s susceptibility to flooding and mosquitoes, this effort will play a crucial role in combating the disease,” he stated.
Representing the Sagbama local government chairperson, Alice Tangi, Vice Chairman Jefferson Tobi acknowledged the timely assistance from Rotary.
“This initiative is unprecedented in Sagbama Local Government Area, especially as malaria cases surge during the rainy season. We deeply appreciate Rotary International for introducing this vital program to our communities,” he remarked.
His Royal Majesty King Boloyi Sufadoh, Pere of Kumbowei Kingdom, also conveyed his gratitude to Rotary for extending the project’s reach to marginalized areas within the state.
