By Chris Woo
Aleka Sub-County in Oyam District has been identified as having the highest malaria burden, with 77% of cases, followed by Oyam Town Council and Abok Sub-County. This was revealed by Ismile Kabugu, a Social Behavioural Officer from the Ministry of Health, during a two-day National Malaria Elimination sensitization meeting in the district. Kabugu also highlighted the high malaria infection rates in other Lango sub-region districts, including Kole, Lira City, and Dokolo.
The meeting marked the start of a malaria immunization campaign targeting children aged six to 18 months, aiming to reduce the annual death toll of 98,000 Ugandans, especially children and antenatal women. Kabugu called on various stakeholders to support the awareness creation efforts, emphasizing that the World Health Organization has approved the vaccine as safe and effective.
Benson Walter Dilla Oyuku, the LC5 Chairperson of Oyam District, expressed gratitude for the Ministry of Health’s initiative, warning against witch doctors and false claims of malaria treatment through prayers.
Sgt. Shilaku James, the Resident District Commissioner, welcomed the immunization exercise and pledged full commitment to raising awareness. Betty Owani, Secretary for Health and Community-Based Services, urged leaders, religious figures, and media outlets to play a role in promoting the campaign.
The immunization effort is seen as a critical step in combating the malaria crisis in Uganda.
