By: Saidu Jalloh, Reporter
Dr. Artem Volchenko, Chief Executive Officer of the Save Africa From Malaria Infections (SAFMI) Foundation, delivered an inspiring message to young entrepreneurs and leaders on November 15, 2024, at the Institute of Public Administration and Management (IPAM), University of Sierra Leone. The event, organized in collaboration with the Anti-Glossophobia Academy, centered on the theme “The Economic Commercialization of Malaria Treatment in the 21st Century,” encouraging participants to view malaria not just as a health crisis but as an opportunity for innovation and economic growth.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Mohamed S. Bangura, President of the IPAM Students Union, praised SAFMI Foundation for selecting IPAM as the venue for this vital discussion. He encouraged students to absorb the insights shared and leverage their entrepreneurial skills to tackle pressing issues like malaria.
Alhaji Dauda Bangura, SAFMI’s Country Representative for Sierra Leone and an IPAM lecturer, outlined innovative strategies for malaria prevention. He introduced the use of Gambusia fish, a natural method for controlling mosquito populations by targeting larvae. This approach has already shown measurable success in communities where it has been implemented, demonstrating the effectiveness of SAFMI’s interventions.
Dr. Volchenko, who traveled thousands of miles to be in Sierra Leone, was lauded for his commitment to fighting malaria in Africa. His presence underscored a dedication to addressing the continent’s health challenges through innovative solutions.
In his keynote address, Dr. Volchenko discussed the extensive economic burden of malaria, which impacts agriculture, education, healthcare, and tourism. He emphasized that while significant resources are allocated to combat malaria, there is vast potential for entrepreneurship to complement these efforts through innovative technologies and partnerships with governments and NGOs.
One of the standout moments of the lecture was SAFMI’s introduction of Gambusia fish as a solution to reduce mosquito larvae populations. Dr. Volchenko shared success stories from areas where this method has been implemented, providing a model for innovative public health interventions.
He urged students to engage actively in the fight against malaria by exploring entrepreneurial opportunities, collaborating with stakeholders, and leveraging funding to create sustainable solutions that enhance public health and drive economic growth. “Malaria should not just be seen as a crisis,” he stated. “It is an opportunity to innovate, create sustainable solutions, and drive economic growth while saving lives.”
Dr. Prisca Ndu from SAFMI’s Nigeria Chapter also addressed the audience, encouraging students to view social challenges like malaria as opportunities for impact and wealth creation. She hailed the lecture as a powerful initiative aimed at empowering the next generation of Sierra Leonean changemakers.
Adding to the event’s momentum, Yuri, the founder of SAFMI, pledged to intensify efforts against malaria in Sierra Leone, reinforcing the foundation’s commitment to improving health outcomes across Africa.
By the end of the lecture, attendees were inspired and energized, ready to tackle one of Africa’s most pressing health issues. Dr. Volchenko’s visit served as a powerful reminder of how entrepreneurial spirit can be harnessed to address public health challenges and drive meaningful change.
