Pakistan’s Malaria Control Expertise Empowers Africa: Leveraging its extensive experience, Pakistan’s Malaria Control Program is embarking on a crucial initiative. The program will train representatives from nine African countries, equipping them to combat a specific mosquito species – Anopheles Stephensi. This proactive approach aims to prevent a potential rise in malaria cases across the continent.
Sharing Knowledge to Address a Shifting Threat
The Directorate of Malaria Control (DoMC) under Pakistan’s Ministry of National Health Services will spearhead this knowledge-sharing program. The initiative will involve a training and capacity-building program focused on Anopheles Stephensi surveillance and control methods. This mosquito, native to South Asia, has become a growing concern in Africa since its arrival in 2013. Countries like Djibouti, Nigeria, Kenya, Somalia, and Sudan have all reported its presence.
Adaptability Creates New Challenges
A key concern surrounding Anopheles Stephensi is its ability to thrive in urban environments. Traditionally, malaria has been more prevalent in rural areas. This shift in the mosquito’s behavior presents a new challenge, potentially exposing millions of African city dwellers to the disease.
Pakistan’s Expertise: A Valuable Resource
Pakistan’s decades-long battle against malaria has equipped the country with Pakistan’s Malaria Control Expertise. This expertise encompasses advanced control practices, robust research capabilities, and well-developed infrastructure for operational research. Recognizing this, both India and Pakistan were invited to share their knowledge with African malaria control specialists.
Building Partnerships for Long-Term Success
The program will involve high-level officials and decision-makers from affected African countries visiting Pakistan. This exchange will allow them to learn from Pakistan’s Malaria Control Expertise firsthand. It also paves the way for future collaborations in research, surveillance, and control methods, fostering a mutually beneficial partnership.
