National Telescope national telescope newspaper
Taiwo Niyi |
In commemoration of World Malaria Day, Dangote Cement Plc has launched a malaria intervention program for its host communities in Okpella, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State.
The two-day program, which started on Thursday, offers free malaria testing, treatment, and mosquito nets to residents.
The program aims to provide free malaria treatment and education to residents, contributing to Nigeria’s progress towards achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3 of good health and wellbeing.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Engr. Sunday Adondua, Coordinator Sustainability Dangote Cement Plc, Okpella, said, “Our goal is to reduce the incidence of malaria to the barest minimum in our host communities. We want to make life more meaningful for our host communities who are vulnerable and lack access to good medical facilities.” He said
Dr. Igazeuma Okoroba, Group Head of Sustainability at Dangote Cement Plc, emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting the health and wellbeing of its host communities. “We recognize that many people lack access to essential healthcare services, and we aim to bridge this gap by addressing health disparities in our host communities.” He said
Beneficiaries of the program expressed their gratitude to Dangote Cement Plc for the free treatment and education. Mrs. Adiza Aliu, who was diagnosed and treated for malaria, said, “I didn’t pay a dime for the treatment and mosquito net. God bless Dangote.” Innocent Valetina, another beneficiary, said, “Dangote is God-sent to alleviate our suffering. The mosquito net is expensive, but we got it free.”
The Edo State Ministry of Health and partners collaborated with Dangote Cement Plc to make the program a success. Comrade Victor Ojeifo, Director Community Health Service, commended Dangote Cement for the medical outreach and urged communities to complement the program by clearing bushes and stagnant water to eradicate malaria.
Dangote Cement Plc has a robust corporate social responsibility program for its host communities, including the establishment of a library with internet connectivity and laptops in Okpella community last year. The company is determined to break the cycle of malaria in its host communities.”
