The event was characterised by the distribution of mosquito bed nets by the Catholic Relief Services, CRS, and National Malaria Control Program, NMCP, also coincided with the last day of the president’s dialogue with the people’s tour.
Speaking at event, secretary general and head of civil service, Momodou Sabally called for collaboration for successful implementation of the campaign.
Mr Sabally, who doubles as presidential affairs minister, added: “The government will continue to create the right environment – funding, technical support and services and we are assured of the support of credible NGOs like CRS and donors like the Global Fund. But the cooperation of the public is a necessity for any meaningful progress.”
The CRS programme manager, Ebrima Jarjue, said: “In the past three years, CRS in collaboration with the National Malaria Control Program has distributed 1.2 million nets. Between 2012 to present we have distributed over two hundred thousand nets. Between now and 2015, we intend to distribute three hundred thousand nets to children and pregnant women as well as provide over 1million nets to the entire population.”
Also addressing the gathering, Mr Omar Sey, the minister of Health and Social Welfare said: ”This is another important milestone in our fight against malaria in the country as the country selects to move towards malaria elimination by 2020. Malaria control and prevention is a priority for the people of the Gambia and my ministry, as malaria remains one of the leading causes of infant maternal mortality in the Gambia.”
According to officials, the mosquito bed nets were tested with safe residual insecticides for the purpose of killing and repealing mosquitoes and are designed to remain effective for many years without being treated.
The campaign against malaria came about following a partnership between the government and CRS.
By Ousman Bojang
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