Mobilizing the power of women to accelerate progress on malaria

TL;DR

Women in Africa play a crucial role in malaria control, but they are often overlooked in decision-making and planning processes. Steps are being taken to involve more women and provide mentorship opportunities in vector control activities.

Transcript

in the year 2020 95 of all malaria cases were from africa a child dies of malaria every two minutes in africa a preventable disease are diseases that we can eliminate from the continent i was born in kissy i'm a firstborn of eight i've suffered from malaria many many times i think every year i will get the infection and i've seen my family my sibli... Read More

Key Insights

• 🌍 Malaria cases are heavily concentrated in Africa, with 95% of cases occurring on the continent. It is a preventable disease that can be eliminated with proper measures.
• 🧒 Malaria is particularly devastating for children in Africa, with a child dying from the disease every two minutes. Even the narrator has personally witnessed the impact of malaria on their family, including the death of a sibling.
• 🏥 Women in African communities play a significant role in malaria control efforts, ensuring tools are used effectively and advocating for their children's treatment. However, their voices and involvement are often marginalized at higher decision-making levels.
• 🏠 Some houses lack proper infrastructure, like ceilings and low beds, making it difficult for women to effectively combat malaria. Involving women in the design and implementation of tools that suit their specific living situations is crucial.
• ⚕️ Women, especially pregnant women and children under five, are the most vulnerable to malaria and its effects. Engaging them in decision-making tables is vital, as they are key caregivers and witness the impact of malaria in their families.
• 💪 Gender balance in scientific research and vector control activities is essential. Providing support, mentorship, and recognition to women in these fields can help inspire interest and create a gender-inclusive world for the next generation.
• 🔬 Dr. Damaris Matoke Mohere, a research scientist and mother, is a role model for women in entomology and vector control. Her mentorship and guidance have made a significant impact on inspiring and empowering women in these fields.
• 🌟 The work of Dr. Damaris and other women in vector control is crucial and deserving of recognition. Creating programs like the Women in Vector Control Excellence Awards and mentorship initiatives can further encourage women to join and excel in these fields.

Questions & Answers

Q: Why is it important to involve women in decision-making for malaria control?

Women's involvement in decision-making is crucial because they not only suffer from malaria themselves but also witness the effects of the disease on their families. By including women's perspectives, strategies for malaria control can be more impactful and better tailored to local contexts.

Q: What challenges do women in African communities face in malaria control?

Some challenges faced by women in malaria control include inadequate housing structures that make it difficult to implement preventative measures, lack of participation in high-level discussions, and receiving tools that don't address their specific needs. These challenges hinder the effectiveness of their efforts.

Q: How does mentorship support women in vector control activities?

Mentorship programs, such as the Women in Vector Control Excellence Award, provide support to women working in the field of vector control. These programs help create a gender-inclusive environment, inspire women to join the field, and provide guidance and opportunities for career advancement.

Q: What impact can women have on their communities by being involved in malaria control?

Women play a critical role in their communities as caregivers and family decision-makers. By actively participating in malaria control efforts, women can protect their families, reduce the burden of the disease, and inspire positive change in their communities.

Q: What initiatives are being undertaken to empower women in the fight against malaria?

Initiatives like the Women in Vector Control Excellence Award and mentorship programs aim to empower women by providing them with recognition, support, and mentorship opportunities in vector control activities. These initiatives help bridge the gender gap in the field and create a more inclusive and diverse workforce.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Malaria remains a prevalent and deadly disease in Africa, with the majority of cases and deaths affecting women and children.

• Women in African communities are actively involved in malaria control efforts, including using tools and treatments, and eliminating breeding sites.

• However, women's voices are often excluded from high-level discussions and decision-making processes, which hinders the effectiveness of malaria control efforts.