Govt and End Malaria Council Strengthen Partnership to Eliminate Malaria by 2030
The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to working with the End Malaria Council (EMC) in the fight against malaria, with a shared goal of eradicating the disease in Zambia by 2030.
During a courtesy call by the EMC on the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Media, Thabo Kawana, the two parties discussed strategies to intensify public awareness on malaria prevention and control.
Mr Kawana stressed the critical role of collaboration between the EMC and the media in disseminating accurate information about malaria’s causes, symptoms, and preventive measures. He pledged the Ministry’s continued support in promoting EMC’s activities across public and private media platforms.
“The media’s role in amplifying messages on malaria prevention cannot be overstated. We must work together to ensure every Zambian understands how to protect themselves and their families,” Mr Kawana said.
EMC Chairperson for Resource Mobilisation, Peter Cottan, revealed that malaria continues to claim more than four lives daily in Zambia, underscoring the urgency of ramping up prevention campaigns. He highlighted the success of last year’s distribution of 11.5 million mosquito nets, which contributed to a significant reduction in cases.
Mr Cottan said the EMC, a multi-sectoral body established by President Hakainde Hichilema, supports the National Malaria Elimination Centre through fundraising, advocacy, action, and accountability. The Council plans to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry to enhance malaria messaging and strengthen partnerships with both public and private media.
“We are committed to consistent behaviour change campaigns that save lives. Our collaboration with the Government and media is key to achieving zero malaria by 2030,” he added.
The EMC and Government will now work closely to roll out targeted awareness programmes, with a focus on mobilising communities to adopt preventive measures and access timely treatment.
