Ecobank Ghana Limited has supported the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP) with essential equipment worth $120,000.
The donation consists of digital microscopes, 100 Samsung tablets, and a Toyota Hilux pickup truck, all of which are intended to strengthen the fight against malaria in Ghana.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Ghana recorded an estimated 5.4 million cases of malaria in 2021, leading to numerous fatalities.
Through the Zero Malaria Business Leadership Initiative (ZMBLI), Ecobank and its partners are actively engaged in eradicating malaria in Ghana and throughout Africa.
Dr Daniel Kasser Tee, Marketing & Corporate Communications Manager at Ecobank Ghana, making the donation on behalf of the bank in Accra, stressed that “this initiative is part of the bank’s commitment to a malaria-free Ghana”.
“The battle against malaria necessitates our collective and collaborative efforts, as the disease continues to pose a threat to millions across Africa,” he said.
Dr Kasser Tee underscored the crucial role of the private sector in driving positive change and sustainable development, which is why Ecobank has taken a leading role in ZMBLI in Ghana.
He pledged that Ecobank would continue to leverage “our network advantage and partnerships with like-minded organisations and individuals to harness the power of the private sector to mobilise resources and provide further support for this initiative.
“We believe in Ghana’s ability to unlock tremendous opportunities for growth and improve the quality of life of our people if we can eliminate malaria. This is only possible if we can increase funding in a sustainable manner for the fight,” he said.
Dr Franklin Asiedu Bekoe, Director for Public Health at the Ghana Health Service, commended Ecobank for their assistance, noting that the donated equipment will significantly enhance malaria elimination efforts.
“The vehicle will ensure efficient transportation of healthcare workers, medicines, and supplies to remote areas. The microscopes will enable rapid and accurate diagnosis of malaria, leading to better treatment outcomes,” he said.