By: Fatmata Grace Okekearu, Bo City
Under the global theme “Malaria Ends With Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite,” the Bo District Health Management Team (Bo-DHMT) joined the rest of the world in observing World Malaria Day on April 25th, with a strong emphasis on community awareness and youth participation.
In the lead-up to the event, the Malaria Control and Prevention Unit of Bo-DHMT conducted an intensive orientation session for internship students and volunteers. The training focused on essential malaria prevention strategies, recognition of signs and symptoms, and effective methods for community outreach. These young advocates are expected to play a key role in the district’s awareness campaign through street sensitization and door-to-door education.
Addressing participants, Madam Fatmata Dabor, Malaria Focal Person at Bo-DHMT, stressed the importance of youth involvement in the fight against malaria. “This training is a key step in building community ownership. When youth are informed and involved, the message spreads faster and farther,” she said.
District Health Sister One, Hawa Daramy, reinforced the need for timely treatment and the consistent use of insecticide-treated bed nets. She encouraged the volunteers to serve as ambassadors for change within their communities.
Mr. Sylvester Lagao, Human Resource Officer at Bo-DHMT, commended the students and volunteers for their enthusiasm and dedication, describing their involvement as a reflection of the growing commitment of young people to national health priorities.
Mohammed Boima Massaquoi, District Social Mobilisation Coordinator, delivered a briefing on community engagement strategies. He highlighted that persistent myths and misinformation about malaria continue to challenge control efforts, particularly in remote communities. He urged volunteers to help counter these misconceptions through consistent grassroots engagement.
The highlight of the World Malaria Day commemoration was a lively street procession through major roads in Bo City, featuring health officials, volunteers, and key stakeholders. Participants distributed educational materials and directly engaged the public on malaria prevention and control measures.
As Bo District joins the global community in marking World Malaria Day, local health leaders are calling on residents to remain vigilant, adopt proactive prevention practices, and collaborate in the ongoing effort to eliminate malaria for good.
