Longleng
Kohima, April 27 (MExN): Districts across Nagaland observed World Malaria Day on April 25 with programs emphasizing the theme “Malaria Ends With Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite,” reaffirming their commitment toward the national goal of malaria elimination.
In Kohima, the Chief Medical Officer’s office, in collaboration with the District Health Society and the Department of Health & Family Welfare under the National Health Mission, held a commemorative program at the CMO’s conference hall. Chaired by DVBD Consultant Emi Imchen, the event featured an address by Dr. Kevilhulie Meyase, DVBO (NVBDCP), who highlighted the progress Nagaland has made in reducing malaria cases through improved surveillance, early diagnosis, prompt treatment, and vector control measures.
“Our journey towards malaria elimination is a collective responsibility. Every effort counts,” Dr. Meyase stated. Best Performance Awards were presented to surveillance workers Khrieno Meyase (Sechu block) and Shamshung Phom (Tseminyu block), and ASHAs Kavitoli (Nagabazar) and Amedo (Pezeilietsie). In his closing remarks, Dy. CMO Dr. Imchatoshi urged participants to “work smarter and strengthen commitment” for a malaria-free district.
In Mon district, World Malaria Day was observed at the District Hospital Conference Hall with SDO (C) Ajit Kumar, IAS, gracing the event as special guest. Kumar praised the health department’s achievements, noting that Mon has reported zero malaria cases since 2021.
“Let us reignite our dedication to delivering health services,” Kumar said. Best performance awards were given to P. S. Chong (SW, Tizit block), C. Yemen (SW, Aboi block), Chula (ASHA, Aboi block), and Nonlih (ASHA, Jakphang village). Dr. Abenthung Murry, DVBO, stated that Mon district is now qualified for the Malaria Eliminating Certificate.
Mokokchung district observed the day at the CMO Conference Hall. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sentizungla Marina Yaden congratulated frontline workers for their crucial role and stressed the importance of teamwork and proper documentation in surveillance work. In his keynote, Imkummongba, DVBO Consultant, provided an overview of India’s National Framework for Malaria Elimination by 2030. Surveillance workers Asangba and Arenla, and ASHAs Chubasangla and Asemtola were felicitated. The program was chaired by Assistant Malaria Officer Khenito.
Phek district held its observance at the CMO Conference Hall with Deputy Chairperson of PTC Phek, Chetezo Akami, as the special guest. In his address, Akami stressed community participation as crucial to disease elimination. Consultant Khrusayi Khamo shared district malaria case trends and prevention measures. Surveillance workers Vetazo (Chozuba block) and Kuvezolu Veswuh (Pfutsero block), along with ASHAs Ruvelu Dozo (Thuvopisu) and Vezovolu Nienu (Chesezu Old village), were recognized for their contributions. Health staff also conducted an intensive awareness campaign in hard-to-reach areas from April 21–25.
In Wokha, the CMO’s office marked World Malaria Day with a program chaired by Dr. Thungchanbemo Ezung, CMO Wokha, who explained the significance of reinvestment, innovation, and renewed enthusiasm in the fight against malaria. Consultant Wezolo Medo reviewed malaria trends, noting only one case detected in 2023. Best performing surveillance workers Phyobemo and Longnyei, and ASHAs Areni Lotha and Yanpolo Mozhui, were felicitated. ADC Wokha Renbomo Ezung congratulated the awardees and praised the commitment of health workers.
Kiphire district’s program, held at the District Hospital Conference Hall, was chaired by Malaria Technical Supervisor John Rick. NVBDCP District Consultant Zhokuve Vero outlined the history of World Malaria Day and highlighted the drastic reduction in malaria cases. CMO Dr. R. Wapang Imchen called on health staff and community leaders to continue sensitization efforts and emphasized the importance of using Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs). Surveillance workers and ASHAs were also honored for their contributions.
In Longleng, the District Health Society observed the day at the CMO Conference Hall. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Tiasunep urged a focus on education, awareness, and sanitation to prevent vector-borne diseases. PowerPoint presentations highlighted malaria trends in the district, with activities including house-to-house visits to check LLIN usage. Best performance awards were presented to surveillance workers Ennyeiphom and K. Henveihphom, and ASHAs Owchai and Bendangmongla.
Zunheboto district combined its World Malaria Day observance with a Malaria Elimination Task Force meeting at the DC Conference Hall. Deputy Commissioner Rahul Bhanudas Mali, IAS, lauded health workers’ efforts and emphasized the importance of community involvement in sustaining progress.
“Malaria is both preventable and curable,” Mali stated.
Dr. Esther Kath, delivering the keynote, highlighted the district’s advances, including strengthened diagnostics and awareness campaigns, while cautioning against complacency amid threats like climate change and pesticide resistance. An epidemiological overview was presented by District Consultant Mudosayi Huire, and best-performing ASHAs and surveillance workers were felicitated.
