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In recent years, progress in reducing malaria has stagnated, posing ongoing health risks and perpetuating inequalities worldwide.
Vulnerable populations, including pregnant women, infants, and Indigenous Peoples, bear a disproportionate burden of the disease.
World Malaria Day, observed annually on April 25th, serves as a global call to action to combat this deadly disease.
Asanko Gold Ghana Limited, in partnership with the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), commemorated World Malaria Day 2024 in Manso Keniago, Ashanti Region, under the theme, “Health Equity: The Cornerstone for Malaria Elimination in Ghana.”
The company’s vision extends beyond mere profitability to encompass sustainable value creation and community engagement.
During the celebratory event, which included a durbar with the Manso Keniago community, Asanko Gold Ghana offered free health screenings and distributed medication to combat malaria.
Dr. Daniel Twumasi, the acting Manager for Environment and Sustainability at Asanko Gold Ghana Ltd, emphasized the company’s commitment to healthcare, citing various community health projects, including the construction of hospitals and water supply systems.
“We have constructed a hospital in Esaase, implemented water supply systems, among many other projects in our mining area.
“This underscores our serious commitment to community health, and we are currently engaged in several projects that will soon be completed and handed over,” he stated.
Dr. Twumasi underscored the significance of employee well-being, noting that many staff members hail from the communities where the company operates. This personal connection reinforces their dedication to promoting local health initiatives.
“Many of our staff members come from the communities where the company operates. This personal connection strengthens our commitment to advancing local health initiatives.
“The well-being of the people in these communities is our utmost priority, but it’s also important for individuals to take care of themselves and follow malaria safety protocols,” he remarked.
The District Director of Health, Dr. Ofosu Kwabi Nasas, praised Asanko Gold Ghana’s support, highlighting a notable achievement: zero malaria-related deaths in the district in recent years.
This success is attributed in part to the collaborative efforts between the company and local health authorities.
He stated, “Through the company’s support, we have achieved zero malaria-related deaths in the district in recent years.
“While cases are still recorded, we effectively address them through medication, public awareness campaigns, and the distribution of free treated mosquito nets, thanks to Asanko’s assistance.”
Dr. Nasas also addressed environmental concerns, urging galamseyers to cover mining pits to prevent mosquito breeding grounds.
“I’m urging galamseyers to responsibly cover their pits once they’ve finished. Mosquitoes require such environments to breed, so they should also clear their surroundings to prevent an increase in such cases,” he stated.
This plea underscores the interconnectedness of health and environmental stewardship.
Asanko Gold Ghana’s proactive approach to community health exemplifies corporate social responsibility in action.
By prioritizing health equity and partnering with local stakeholders, the company contributes to malaria prevention efforts and fosters sustainable development.
World Malaria Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against malaria and the importance of collective action.
Through initiatives like those undertaken by Asanko Gold Ghana Limited, progress toward malaria elimination and improved health outcomes becomes attainable.
As communities and companies work together, we move closer to a future free from the scourge of malaria.
Nana Yaw Owusu/Ashanti Region.
