Fight against malaria and river blindness in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Fortescue, a company specializing in the development of renewable energy projects, is today launching an initiative to combat malaria and river blindness in the Inga region of the Democratic Republic of Congo. This new initiative builds on more than two years of work within communities across the region and aims to strengthen existing public health responses.
The program put in place by Fortescue will include several key actions. First, it provides for indoor and outdoor spraying as well as the use of larvicides every three months in the Inga region. This measure aims to reduce the population of mosquitoes carrying the disease. In addition, a spraying campaign supervised by public health actors will be implemented in order to reduce the concentrations of harmful “black flies”.
One of the important aspects of this program is the training of local community members on the application of vector control measures at all times. These trainings, supervised by health specialists, will enable community members to actively contribute to the fight against malaria and river blindness.
The ultimate goal of this program is to significantly reduce the prevalence of malaria and river blindness in the Inga region and surrounding villages. Building on recommendations from the World Health Organization, Fortescue aims to complement existing public health interventions by deploying effective control tools such as long-lasting insecticide-treated bed nets and indoor spraying.
In addition to its commitment to the fight against malaria and river blindness, Fortescue is also involved in the development of renewable energies in the Democratic Republic of Congo. By working closely with communities and local authorities, the company aims to exploit the country’s renewable energy potential, notably through the Green Industries Project which will include the Inga hydroelectric site.
This Fortescue initiative aims to improve access to electrification and stimulate economic growth in the Democratic Republic of Congo. By supporting local communities and promoting the transition to a green economy, Fortescue contributes to both public health and the country’s sustainable development.
The fight against malaria and river blindness in the Democratic Republic of Congo is a crucial issue for the health and well-being of local populations. Thanks to initiatives like Fortescue’s, it is possible to provide concrete and lasting solutions to meet these public health challenges