By: Abdul Razack Gbla
Save Africa From Malaria Infection (SAFMI), a leading international non-governmental organization focused on malaria prevention, is set to officially launch its innovative Malaria Fish Project in Sierra Leone on Thursday, November 14, 2024.
The event will take place at the West African Sunshine, located at 7 Lumley Beach Road, Aberdeen, Freetown, and will begin at 10:00 a.m.
This launch represents a major milestone in SAFMI’s ongoing efforts to reduce malaria across Sierra Leone and the broader West African region. The project utilizes a natural and sustainable method: introducing Gambusia fish, a species known to feed on mosquito larvae, which can significantly reduce mosquito populations and thereby lower malaria transmission rates.
Artem Volchenko, SAFMI’s Chief Executive Officer, highlighted the project’s potential impact on public health and economic growth in Sierra Leone, stating, “It’s time for us to unite in the fight against malaria in Sierra Leone. Malaria has long hindered tourism and well-being in this country. This project can help transform our communities.”
Dignitaries, including the Minister of Planning and Economic Development and malaria experts from Nigeria and other nations, are expected to attend the launch. Volchenko added that the event would also feature the distribution of thousands of Gambusia fish to local communities, health centers, and other strategic areas. SAFMI will also provide over 150 water tanks across Freetown, targeting areas most vulnerable to malaria.
With the Malaria Fish Project, SAFMI is taking a unique, eco-friendly approach to malaria prevention, positioning itself at the forefront of efforts to eradicate malaria in Sierra Leone and the wider region.