Oshikoto: The Ministry of Health and Social Services in Namibia is intensifying efforts to eliminate malaria in the Oshikoto region, with malaria ambassador Vilho Nuunyango leading the charge. This commitment was affirmed during Nuunyango’s recent visit to the office of Oshikoto Governor Penda Ya Ndakolo.
According to The Namibian Press Agency, the regional chief environmental health practitioner, the Oshikoto Region reported 300 out of 11,000 malaria cases in Namibia last year, with 186 cases recorded this year. Ngenokesho indicated that some of these cases were local, while others were imported from neighboring Angola, highlighting the challenge of cross-border malaria transmission.
Ngenokesho stressed the importance of vigilance concerning people migrating into Namibia and the necessity of treating them to prevent malaria spread. She commended the ministry’s efforts in treating malaria patients and conducting thorough case investigations. Emphasizing preventive measures, she encouraged the use of mosquito nets, designed to inhibit the spread of malaria.
However, Ngenokesho noted that some individuals misuse mosquito nets for fishing and constructing poultry shelters, practices she strongly discouraged. She called for local authorities in the region to take an active role in malaria prevention and awareness campaigns.
Ngenokesho highlighted that the fight against malaria is not just a ministry issue but affects entire communities. She urged local authorities to support the ministry’s efforts by providing services to curb malaria, especially in villages and rural areas.
The ministry is adopting various policies and strategies to accelerate the fight against malaria, with the goal of making Oshikoto the first region in Namibia to eliminate the disease. Ngenokesho mentioned the involvement of different divisions within the ministry and pastors in creating awareness as part of these strategies.