We are thrilled to announce the launch of a comprehensive malaria prevention program in East Sumba, made possible by the generous support and funding from the Fair Future Foundation. This initiative aims to combat the devastating impact of malaria in the region and improve the health and well-being of the local communities.
Malaria remains a significant health challenge in East Sumba, with many cases reported annually. The new prevention program will employ a multi-faceted approach, incorporating education, prevention strategies, and community engagement to combat the disease effectively.
Case reports on the Malaria Information System (Sismal) until May 2023 reached 85.72 percent of malaria cases in NTToriginating from Sumba Island. EastSumba faces several problems in its efforts to deal with Malaria cases in the region. High infection rates indicate obstacles in preventing, treating, and controlling this disease.
Through this collaboration, Kawan Baik Indonesia, Sumba Volunteer, EastSumba Regional Government, East Sumba District Health Office, MahuSubdistrict Government, Puskesmas Mahu, and Malaria cadres will implement the following key components:
- Education and Awareness: The program will prioritize community education, raising awareness about the causes, symptoms, and malaria prevention methods. Informational campaigns and interactive sessions will ensure that residents know what is necessary to protect themselves and their families.
- Vector Control: The program will employ proven vector control methods, including distributing insecticide-treated bed nets, indoor-residual spraying, give soap and anti-mosquito lotion, and environmental management to reduce mosquito breeding sites. These efforts will aim to reduce the transmission of malaria significantly.
- Mobile Testing Units: Implement mobile testing units that can travel to remote or hard-to-reach areas of Mahu Subdistrict. These units can bring malaria testing facilities closer to the communities, ensuring better access to early detection services.
- Surveillance and Response Systems: To enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the program, digital applications were utilized to support data collection from test results. These innovative solutions facilitated the accurate and timely supply, analysis, and reporting of crucial information. By leveraging technology, the program can adapt and respond swiftly to emerging trends, ultimately improving the overall quality of care provided to the target population.
- Improving the Clean Water Facility in the Puskesmas: Access to clean water is fundamental for providing quality healthcare services and maintaining hygienic conditions at the Puskesmas. Unfortunately, the current water pump at the facility has become non-functional, posing challenges to delivering essential services.
Our key is that involving local communities is critical to the long-term success of any health intervention. This program will work closely with community leaders, organizations, and volunteers to mobilize efforts, strengthen community participation, and foster a sense of responsibility to eradicate malaria from their bodies.
As well as the involvement of more than 50 medical and non-medical volunteers was instrumental in the success of this program. These dedicated individuals generously contributed their time, expertise, and compassion to ensure the smooth implementation of various activities. Their commitment to improving the local population’s health is commendable and a testament to the power of community engagement.
With an estimated 2,000 people set to benefit from this malaria prevention program, the impact on the community is expected to be significant. Early case detection through RDT and microscopy tests ensure prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment, reducing the burden of the disease. Vector control and prevention efforts, such as distributing bed nets and environmental management, help minimize malaria transmission, creating safer living environments.
In addition to these essential interventions, door-to-door counseling is vital in educating the community about malaria causes, symptoms, and prevention methods. This personalized approach ensures that individuals know how to protect themselves and their families, fostering a culture of proactive health management.
This program needs IDR579,186,000,- and we extend our deepest gratitude to Fair Future Foundation for the substantial donation which made this program possible. Furthermore, we express our heartfelt appreciation to all the volunteers who selflessly dedicated their time and expertise to improve the lives of those affected by malaria in East Sumba.
While Fair Future Foundation has provided a substantial donation, we aim to expand the program’s reach and impact by inviting additional donors and supporters to contribute to this vital cause. Your support will enable us to continue our efforts and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by malaria in East Sumba.
There are several ways individuals, organizations, and businesses can contribute to the malaria prevention program:
- Financial Contributions
- Donations
- In-kind
- Volunteering
- Partnerships
By becoming a donor or supporter, you actively participate in the fight against malaria and help to create a healthier and more resilient East Sumba community. Together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by this preventable and treatable disease.
For more information on how to contribute or get involved, please contact:
Ayu Setia Wardani
Director
Kawan Baik Indonesia Foundation
0810 0220 0818 / 087777 3333 48
info@kawanbaikindonesia.org
https://kawanbaikindonesia.org/
Donations Offline
Permata Bank
Account No.: 1224093140
Account Name: Yayasan Kawan Baik Indonesia
Bank Branch: Pura Bagus Taruna No 522 X Legian
Currency: IDR-USD-CHF-AUD
