Ghana through the ministry of health in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) has launched the National Malaria Elimination Strategic Plan (NMESP) aimed at eliminating malaria by 2028.
On the theme; “Zero Malaria Starts Now: Launching Ghana’s Path to Elimination”, the minister for health, Kwaku Agyeman-Manu revealed that plans to make Ghana malaria free has been a long term vision which led to the creation of a malaria control unit within the ministry of health in 1957.
According to the minister, malaria has been a priority under government’s initiatives over the years leading to the launch of the strategic plan.
Giving a brief history on the fight against malaria, Kwaku Agyeman-Manu noted that in the past decade, the country has been able to reduce the mortality rate of malaria cases and the reduction in malaria infections.
“To further reduce the burden of malaria and work towards elimination, the country must continue implementing effective interventions and strategies to address the gaps in coverage and healthcare services”, the minister said.
Following the likes of Cape Verde who have been declared malaria free by the WHO, the minister mentioned that the strategic plan which will be the main document to drive Ghana’s elimination efforts is not a mere document put a powerful declaration of intent to achieve the country’s goal hence the need for all stakeholders to support the plan.
Voice of Kwaku Agyeman Manu
The Government’s Spokesperson on Health, Dr Anthony Nsiah Asare, on behalf of the President pledged the government commitment in making this aim a reality.
He said, the government is ready to support.
Voice of Dr. Anthony Nsiah Asare
