By Tolit Ivan
The Government, through the Ministry of Health, has partnered with Ker Kwaro Acholi in a renewed effort to eliminate malaria in the Acholi sub-region.
Michael Otim, Prime Minister of Ker Kwaro Acholi, revealed that the five-year partnership will see cultural leaders from the Acholi cultural institution work hand-in-hand with the Ministry of Health to combat malaria.
Dr. Upenytho George Dugumn, Commissioner for Health Services at the Ministry of Health, underscored the vital role cultural and opinion leaders play in rallying community support for health initiatives.
Malaria remains the leading cause of illness and death among young children in Uganda, accounting for 33% of all outpatient visits, 22% of hospital admissions, and 6% of deaths, according to World Health Organization (WHO) data for 2023.
In April this year the government through the Ministry of Health introduced R21-Matrix-M malaria vaccine into its routine immunization schedule.
The vaccine rollout aims to protect children under two years of age, who are most vulnerable to malaria.
The rollout is part of Uganda’s broader strategy to combat malaria, which includes other interventions like insecticide-treated nets and seasonal malaria chemoprevention.
