Accra: Dr. Charity Binka, Executive Secretary of the Africa Media and Malaria Research Network (AMMREN), has urged Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), community groups, and the media to play a stronger role in Ghana's fight against malaria. Dr. Binka emphasized that changing public attitudes and behaviors towards treatment and medication adherence is crucial for eliminating the disease.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Binka, in an interview during a malaria elimination dialogue, noted that while Ghana possesses the necessary tools to eradicate malaria, progress is hindered by behavioral challenges such as self-medication, drug abuse, and inadequate health-seeking practices. She highlighted that despite the availability of mosquito nets, effective medicines, investment, and proven strategies, the correct behavior is lacking. Many people treat every fever as malaria, resort to herbs, or buy medications without proper testing, placing a significant burden on treatment efforts.
Dr. Binka explained that the misuse of subsidized and costly malaria medicines undermines their effectiveness, accelerates resistance, and risks rendering treatments ineffective. She called for stronger collaboration with CSOs to enhance their understanding of malaria elimination strategies and to work closely with communities where they hold trust and influence. She cited successful models from Rwanda, where retired professionals are trained to provide initial care and conduct rapid diagnostic tests within their communities.
Furthermore, Dr. Binka suggested that Ghana could adopt similar models by empowering community-based organizations (CBOs) and engaging retired professionals to support health education, promote testing, and discourage self-medication. She emphasized the need for accessible testing, noting that long hospital waiting times often deter people from seeking medical help.
Dr. Binka also underscored the importance of building trust within communities, enabling residents to confidently seek advice from trained individuals. She highlighted the media's critical role, urging journalists to become long-term partners in malaria elimination efforts. By fostering strong relationships with researchers, the media can ensure accurate communication of scientific information.
Queen Mothers also echoed the need for education and strict implementation of sanitation by-laws to change community attitudes. Naana Korlekie Korley, Queen Mother of Ada Terkpebiawe, advocated for deploying sanitation officers to educate and enforce regulations, while Naa Korkor Aadzieoyi I, Queen Mother of Adabraka, recommended reinforcing communal clean-ups and policies to maintain clean environments as part of the malaria elimination strategy.