On April 25th, the West African Center for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP) participated in the 2024 World Malaria Day event held at the Church of Pentecost, Fred Stephen Temple, Teshie-Nungua. The event aimed to heighten awareness of ongoing national & global efforts to combat and ultimately eliminate malaria.
Aligned with the global theme, "Accelerate the fight against malaria for a more equitable world," and the local theme, "Health equity: Cornerstone for achieving malaria elimination in Ghana," representatives from diverse sectors in Ghana, including the pharmaceutical and biotech industry, policymakers, research centres, traditional leaders, community-based groups, and residents, convened to discuss strategies for malaria elimination.
Dr. Patrick Kuma-Aboagye, Director-General of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), mentioned the importance of a comprehensive approach involving all stakeholders in the malaria elimination agenda. He emphasized community ownership in the elimination efforts and the pursuit of a malaria-free environment. He also announced the launch of a National Malaria Elimination strategy for 2024-2028, which details the steps to combat the disease as well as the efforts and interventions adopted by the Ghana Health to achieve a malaria-free nation.
Dr. Nana Yaw Peprah, Deputy Program Manager for the National Malaria Elimination Program, provided insights into the National Malaria Plan 2021-2025, aiming to reduce malaria mortality and case incidence. Dr. Peprah discussed various malaria control interventions implemented by the program, including the distribution of long-lasting insecticide nets, and malaria vaccinations. He also reported on progress towards malaria elimination in Ghana.
“Already, malaria-related deaths of all ages reduced from 333 in 2019 to 146 by the end of 2023 (a 56% reduction) and the under-five malaria case fatality rate reduced from 0.12% in 2019 to 0.06% in 2020, a 50% reduction".
During the event, WACCBIP research scientists took the opportunity to share the significant contributions made by the Centre in leading malaria research. WACCBIP conducted free malaria and hepatitis B screenings for community members attending the program as well as interactive demonstrations and exciting experiments, including hands-on microscopy techniques and showcasing malaria parasites under the microscope.
For high school students present at the program, the hands-on microscopy provided visual insights into the biology of these parasites, enhancing their understanding of scientific research. Additional demonstrations of how Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) Assays and Rapid Diagnostics test Kits work helped participants recognize the importance of diagnostic tools in early disease detection, treatment, and control.
Jerry Justice, a student from Nunguah Senior High School, expressed his enthusiasm after interacting with WACCBIP Scientists.
“So I came to this World Malaria Day program and I came across an organization called WACCBIP. I was actually passing by and they invited me to come and have a look at something. The scientist showed me a few things about Mosquitoes, they did very well because I was extremely excited seeing that. The scientists showed me various aspects of mosquitoes, including eggs, larvae, and pupae. They explained the developmental process, stating it takes about 25 days for a mosquito to fully develop,” he said. “They showcased female and male adult mosquitoes, highlighting their differences. I gained valuable insights into how malaria is caused and prevented, thanks to them. I'm truly grateful.”
World Malaria Day is observed annually on April 25th, and provides an opportunity to reflect on achievements and obstacles in malaria elimination. WACCBIP's involvement underscores its commitment to advancing research and initiatives aimed at eradicating malaria and enhancing global health outcomes.
