Save Africa from Malaria Infection (SAFMI) Foundation on Wednesday 31st July 2024 ended two days’ comprehensive training session for volunteers, focusing on innovative methods to combat malaria in Sierra Leone.
Artem Volchenko, Executive Director of SAFMI, who doubles as the lead trainer, disclosed that: “this is concerted effort to deploy natural, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly strategies to control mosquito populations and reduce malaria in Sierra Leone”.
The Executive Director explained the importance of volunteers in the fight against malaria in Sierra Leone. He further stated that there is urgent need for malaria to be eradicated in Sierra Leone with the help of the Gambusia Affinis. Highlighting the importance of Gambusia Affinis, commonly known as Mosquito Fish into strategic water bodies, he said that these small fish are capable of consuming up to 300 mosquito larvae in just five minutes, and that they therefore offer a huge biological solution to mosquito control.
He noted that the foundation’s initiative is to leverage this natural predator to reduce the mosquito population and consequently, the spread of malaria in Sierra Leone.
Artem Volchenko, revealed that Gambusia Affinis, is a hardy fish species, which thrives in various water conditions, making them ideal for deployment in Sierra Leone’s diverse aquatic environments. They are viviparous, meaning they give birth to live young, and can reproduce rapidly under optimal conditions. The females can produce up to 70-100 every two months, ensuring a sustainable population that is capable of controlling mosquito larvae.
The foundation’s work is in three phases. Phase 1 focuses on establishing partnerships with local businesses, educational institutions, and other high-traffic areas to place water tanks stocked with Gambusia. These tanks, prominently branded with SAFMI’s logo, serve as both a functional solution and an educational tool, raising awareness about malaria prevention.
Phase 2 involves the maintenance and care of these water tanks. Volunteers are scheduled for weekly visits to ensure the well-being of the fish and the cleanliness of the tanks. This phase also includes water quality management and monitoring for any issues, such as sick fish or tank pollution.
Phase 3, the training and capacity-building phase, to equip volunteers with the necessary skills for fish care, breeding, and water tank maintenance. Volunteers are trained in the biology and habitat requirements of Gambusia and receive hands-on experience in tank setup and maintenance.
Alhaji Dauda Bangura, a facilitator at the event, highlighted the initiative’s alignment with the broader efforts of the World Health Organization (WHO) and other partners in the fight against malaria in Africa. SAFMI’s program which was introduced in Sierra Leone two months ago, has already begun to show promise in preventing the spread of malaria. Bangura emphasized the importance of preventive measures and encouraged local communities to participate actively in the initiative.
During the training session, volunteers engaged in discussions, and asked pertinent questions about the project. Both Volchenko and Bangura provided detailed answers, ensuring that all participants were well-informed and prepared for their roles in the initiative.
The SAFMI Foundation’s efforts show a united front in the battle against malaria. By integrating scientific knowledge with community engagement, SAFMI aims to create a sustainable and impactful program that not only addresses the immediate threat of malaria but also builds long-term resilience within communities.
With the foundation continuing its battle against malaria, it hopes to expand its efforts beyond Sierra Leone, targeting other African countries such as Liberia, Guinea, and The Gambia and with continued support from local and international partners, SAFMI is poised to make significant strides in eradicating malaria and improving public health across the Africa continent.
The training was climaxed with a conducted tour of the Fish Farm in the western part of Freetown.
