Sep 17, 2009 - Launch Of The Malaria Component Of MTNF-PAMAC Project
I am proud to identify with and also witness and launch of this project tagged MTN Foundation Partners Against AIDS & Malaria in Communities (PAMAC). I commend the MTN Foundation for the very timely decision to expand the scope of the existing HIV/AIDS intervention to include malaria.
Malaria, as we know, has become one of the greatest enemies of mankind particularly in tropical Africa. It is the leading cause of deaths especially among children and women. Reports have also shown that Nigeria occupies an unenviable position of being accountable for the highest percentage of malaria cases in Africa. This is in spite of the several programs and initiatives by successive government at all levels to eradicate or reduce the incidence of malaria infections and death.
This step being taken by MTN Foundation today is no doubt a recognition of the great challenge posed by malaria in addition to HIV/AIDS and the need for the active involvement of the private sector to complement government initiative. A project is a welcome development worthy of emulation by other corporate bodies
It is my hope that this initiative will, in addition to distributing insecticide treated nets among others place great emphasis on the need to sensitize our people on the importance of personal and communal hygiene. We need to continuously educate the general populace on the benefits in keeping a healthy environment and also doing away with all dirty habits that makes our environment conducive for the breeding of mosquitoes and other disease bearing creatures.
Once again, I commend MTN Foundation for initiating this projet and pray that it will achieve the desired objective of reducing the incidence of malaria in our society.
Thank you and God bless you all.
Her Excellency
Mrs. Abimbola Fashola
First Lady of Lagos State