The Ike Odoeme Foundation marked World Malaria Day 2025 by distributing 10,000 insecticide-treated mosquito nets and malaria medications to vulnerable communities across Imo State. The event, held over the weekend, was organized in partnership with the Imo State Ministry of Health, the CARTER Center, and the World Health Organization (WHO).
At a ceremony in Owerri, the Foundation also unveiled the official 2025 World Malaria Day banner and theme, highlighting the need for united efforts to achieve a malaria-free future. Executive Director of the Foundation, Sylvie Marie, shared that before the main event, outreach teams had already visited several high-burden areas such as Oguta, Obowo, Onuimo, Aboh Mbaise, Ihitte/Uboma, Ama Hausa, Excellent Height Hub, and Imo Girls Secondary School.
Marie reported that the Foundation carried out over 5,000 free malaria screenings, focusing mainly on pregnant women, children, the elderly, and other vulnerable groups. Areas with the highest malaria rates received special attention, guided by data provided by the Ministry of Health. Besides distributing nets, the Foundation organized awareness sessions, trained residents on how to produce home-based insecticides, and gave out anti-malaria drugs to those who tested positive.
In Ama Hausa community, volunteers also led a sanitation campaign, clearing gutters and fumigating public spaces to cut down mosquito breeding grounds.
Sylvie Marie praised the Imo State Ministry of Health for its support and accurate data sharing, pointing out that recent records showed Imo State logged 73,705 malaria cases. Out of these, 69,063 were treated using Artemisinin-based Combination Therapies (ACTs). She noted that Oguta, Obowo, and Onuimo recorded the highest case numbers, especially among pregnant women and children under five.
According to Marie, the Foundation’s entire strategy was shaped by the data, ensuring that the resources went where they were needed most.
She also urged the government, civil society groups, and health partners to build stronger alliances to eliminate malaria. Marie reaffirmed the Foundation’s commitment to fighting malaria, female genital mutilation (FGM), and other health challenges, aligning their work with Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being). She called on individuals and organizations to support their mission under SDG 17, which focuses on partnerships for achieving global goals.
