By Norbert Fidelis
ASABA/Nigeria: Stakeholders in Delta State’s public health sector took to the streets in a coordinated advocacy campaign to mark this year’s World Malaria Day, as the Youth African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Network Delta, in partnership with the State Ministry of Health and global health bodies, intensified calls for collective action against malaria.
The road walk, held in collaboration with the World Health Organization and the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Delta State Chapter, formed part of activities commemorating the global health day themed, “Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can, Now We Must,” drawing participation from health officials, volunteers and youth advocates.
Speaking during the event, the Acting Permanent Secretary of the Delta State Ministry of Health, Dr. Okwe Uche, described malaria as a persistent public health threat, urging residents to adopt preventive measures to curb its spread.
She emphasised the importance of environmental hygiene and the consistent use of treated mosquito nets, noting that individual responsibility remains critical in reducing malaria-related cases.
Also addressing participants, the Coordinator of YALI Network Delta, Miss Grace Chukwufumanya Ndobu, said the fight against malaria requires a zero-tolerance approach, stressing that eradication is achievable if communities commit to preventive practices.
She further revealed that malaria vaccines are now available, adding that efforts are ongoing to ensure access to the vaccines within Delta State as part of broader intervention strategies.
The YALI Network, a United States government-backed initiative implemented by the U.S. Department of State, focuses on empowering young Africans through leadership development, networking and access to resources across business, civic leadership and public management.
Founded under former U.S. President Barack Obama, the programme spans all 54 African countries, with a growing footprint in grassroots advocacy and development initiatives.
