The Savannah Regional Health Directorate has officially launched the 2025 Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention (SMC) campaign, which will run from Wednesday, July 9 to Sunday, July 13, 2025. This important intervention aims to protect children between the ages of 3 to 59 months from malaria during the peak rainy season.
The announcement was made during a stakeholder engagement held on July 8, 2025, in Damongo, where the Directorate briefed participants on the rollout of this year’s campaign. The SMC program, now in its fifth year in the Savannah Region and 10th year nationwide, has proven to be a highly effective method for reducing malaria cases among young children — the most vulnerable group.
Dr. John Ekow Otoo, Savannah Regional Director of Health Service, emphasized the urgency of the campaign, citing the increased prevalence of malaria during the rainy season. He stated, “Among the many interventions, the SMC stands out as a proven strategy to protect children — the group that suffers the most and loses the most lives due to malaria.”
He called on all stakeholders to support the exercise by spreading awareness within their communities. “Stakeholders are very influential in society. When they speak, people listen. We urge them to help encourage parents and caregivers to ensure their children receive all the doses.”
Under the SMC campaign, trained health volunteers will conduct house-to-house visits to administer the anti-malaria medication orally and free of charge. Each child will need four cycles of SMC medicine over the next four months for optimal protection.
Speaking on behalf of the National Malaria Elimination Program( NMEP ), Mr. Isaaka Ishan, Data Manager, acknowledged the sustained support from partners and local leaders. He reiterated the program’s commitment to saving lives and said, “Until no child dies of malaria, we will keep coming back. Your advice and involvement are vital for achieving a malaria-free Ghana.”
Mr. Ishan also expressed gratitude on behalf of Dr. Hilarious Kosi Abiwu, Program Manager of the National Malaria Elimination Program, and called for continued collaboration and support for a successful campaign.
Meanwhile, the public is encouraged to continue sleeping under Long-Lasting Insecticide-Treated Nets (LLINs) and practicing other preventive measures. Parents and caregivers are also urged to report any side effects—such as persistent vomiting, diarrhea, fever, itching, rashes, or headaches—to the nearest health facility for prompt medical attention.
The SMC campaign remains a cornerstone in Ghana’s fight against malaria and a beacon of hope for safeguarding the health of the nation’s children.
Source: Padfm.com.gh/Kumatey Gorden/0243531604
