Malaria Carnival
CARNIVAL OBJECTIVE: To reach the community with information on malaria prevention.
On 20th June 2014, Village HopeCore conducted a malaria carnival in addition to the usual education on malaria prevention and distribution of long-lasting, insecticide-treated mosquito nets to pupils in schools HopeCore coordinates monthly. The carnival made the day very entertaining as well as educativeThis event was funded by PeaceCorps, but organized and facilitated by the VillageHopeCore International public health team.
It took place at Iruma Primary School where approximately 750 schoolchildren, 250 of their parents, 25 teachers, and three officers from the public health ministry were present. The media was also in attendance. The event began with an introduction and an educational talk on malaria and health by Stella Kagendo. She discussed the causes and methods for the prevention of malaria, for example, how to ensure that there are no mosquito breeding sites within homes (e.g., ensuring that there is no water logging, clearing bushes and grass, and collecting garbage). She also spoke about how everyone can get infected with malaria, but there are also people at a higher risk of infection: the aged, infants, expectant mothers, and those attacked by the major diseases (HIV/AIDS, TB, BP, etc.).
After the general discussion, she and our nurse Winjoy hosted an informational booth where they further explained to parents about malaria and how to repair mosquito nets. Additionally, when given the opportunity parents asked questions related to family planning matters, and Stella and Winjoy responded to many other health questions. After the malaria education, I led the pupils to sing a song, “karaoke-style” about malaria prevention and what to do in case you get symptoms of malaria. By the way, the pupils responded, the team and myself could tell that they were enjoying the event. Our former global fellow Mitsuaki also taught students a song about washing their hands. After the singing, the competitions began.
There was a drawing/design of a mural depicting malaria prevention through the use of treated mosquito nets, three-legged sack races, and dancing. Winners of the three competitions received rewards of school pullovers, second place, and third-place winners received toothbrushes and toothpaste. When the competitions and award ceremonies were over, the pupils were presented with mosquito nets. I liked it most when they all lifted their nets up high in the air and shouted, “NO MORE MALARIA!” which is the slogan that is always taught by our health education program teacher, Lennah Mwende.
Finally, the pupils were given a snack to calm down their stomachs after carrying out all the activities of the special day. I saw the day as a successful one since we accomplished our mission of malaria education, and all those who attended enjoyed themselves. I long for such days when we stay longer with our clients to talk and discuss issues and engage them in activities that will steer their memories into remembering our intended message. I feel that the Iruma community will always remember this event and the event’s main message: MALARIA PREVENTION.
Written by Faith Kainyu
