Fighting malaria and river blindness: a promising initiative in Inga, Democratic Republic of Congo
Mining company Fortescue recently launched a new initiative to combat malaria and river blindness in the Inga region of the Democratic Republic of Congo. This initiative builds on more than two years of work within communities across the region and aims to strengthen existing public health measures while actively involving local communities.
The program put in place by Fortescue includes several key actions to combat these persistent health problems. First, it provides for indoor and outdoor spraying as well as the use of larvicides every three months in the Inga region. These measures aim to reduce mosquito populations responsible for transmitting malaria and other vector-borne diseases.
In addition, a spraying campaign supervised by public health actors will be put in place to reduce the presence of black flies, which are responsible for river blindness. In parallel, a training program will be offered to local community members to train and certify them in the application of vector control measures, under the supervision of health specialists.
The objective of this initiative is to contribute significantly to reducing the prevalence of malaria and river blindness in Inga and surrounding villages. Based on recommendations from the World Health Organization, Fortescue implements effective control tools such as long-lasting insecticide-treated bed nets, residual spraying and environmental management to target specifically the vectors responsible for these diseases.
In announcing the initiative, Fortescue underscored its commitment to supporting and empowering local communities. The company also intends to develop the Green Industries Project in the DRC, with the Inga hydroelectric site as one of the largest sources of renewable energy in the world. This sustainable transition to renewable energy aims to improve access to electrification and stimulate economic growth in the region.
This Fortescue initiative is one of many examples of how companies can contribute to the socio-economic development of the regions where they operate. By working closely with the authorities of the Democratic Republic of Congo and actively involving local communities, Fortescue shows its desire to have a positive impact on the health and well-being of the population.
It is encouraging to see initiatives like this that go beyond a company’s core business and seek to improve the quality of life of local people.. Hopefully this initiative to fight malaria and river blindness in Inga proves successful and serves as a model for other similar projects in other parts of the world. By working together, businesses, authorities and communities can make a real difference in the fight against these diseases and improve public health