By Daniel Oji
Hundreds of persons in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, have benefitted from a 2-day free medical services titled “Zero Malaria Gbaramatu.”
The outreach was organized by the Rotary Club of Maple Grove, Minnesota, USA, in conjunction with the Rotary Club of Plantation City and the Tompolo Foundation.
The beneficiaries from various communities in Gbaramatu Kingdom were tested for malaria, blood sugar and eye conditions before doctors prescribed drugs.
They also received free treated mosquito nets and reading glasses during the medical outreach.
Speaking in an interview with Actual News, the Director of Project and Representative of Rotary Club of Maple Grove Minnesota, USA, Rotarian Jennifer Borel, said the “Zero Malaria Gbaramatu” programme is aimed at ensuring residents of the riverine kingdom are free from malaria, an ailment prevalent in the area due to its riverine environment.
“Those with malaria are treated and given treated mosquito nets to prevent further infection. Those with eye-related issues are provided with reading glasses and eye drops to help them read and see clearly,” Borel said.
Assistant Governor
The President of Rotary Club of Plantation City, Rotarian Festus Idabe, said the programme aligns with Rotary International’s seven areas of focus, particularly disease prevention and treatment and ensuring healthy communities.
“This Zero Malaria Gbaramatu programme is in line with Rotary’s commitment to ensuring that everyone is healthy.”
The Medical Doctor on the team, Dr. Alaowei Nduku, health worker Cynthia Amrete, and Local Organizing Committee member Esther David said the outreach is designed to help reduce malaria in Gbaramatu Kingdom.
They revealed that the programme will run for one year, with 40 persons trained to visit various communities to treat cases of uncomplicated malaria and refer complicated cases to health centers.
“We are here to reduce malaria burden and ensure early treatment. Trained community workers will continue this work for the next one year.”
Some beneficiaries thanked the Rotary Club of Maple Grove Minnesota USA, Rotary Club of Plantation City and Tompolo Foundation for the gesture.
“We appreciate this free treatment. From now on we will sleep under the mosquito nets to prevent malaria.”
Organizers said the initiative will be sustained through community health workers to ensure lasting impact in Gbaramatu Kingdom.
