Zambia Sugar Company has reaffirmed its commitment to the fight against malaria by donating 20 Buffalo bicycles worth K100,000 to the Zambia National Malaria Elimination Center (ZNMEC). The donation, made during a handover event in Lusaka yesterday, is aimed at enhancing mobility for health workers, particularly in rural areas where access to malaria treatment remains a challenge.
Speaking at the event, Zambia Sugar Company Business Affairs Manager Ackson Tembo emphasized that the company’s goal is to contribute to the nationwide efforts to eliminate malaria. He expressed confidence that the bicycles would help health workers reach remote communities with impassable roads, ensuring timely access to malaria medication.
“These bicycles will help health workers effectively carry out their duties, especially in rural areas where reaching malaria-affected patients can be difficult. By improving access to treatment, we are supporting the goal of eliminating malaria in Zambia,” Mr. Tembo stated.
He also called on other stakeholders to join the cause, highlighting the importance of collective action in the fight against malaria.
“I encourage other organizations to emulate Zambia Sugar. One bicycle can make a significant difference, potentially saving many lives. Together, we can work towards a malaria-free Zambia,” he added.
Mr. Tembo further reaffirmed Zambia Sugar’s commitment to malaria elimination, urging the public to support the company’s upcoming fundraising activities, such as a golf tournament scheduled to take place in Mazabuka later this year. He noted that proceeds from the event would be directed towards malaria prevention initiatives.
Receiving the donation, Zambia National Malaria Elimination Center Assistant Director Sampa Chitambala-Otiono thanked Zambia Sugar for its contribution, describing it as a significant step in strengthening malaria response efforts.
“This donation will have a positive impact on malaria elimination. The bicycles will allow health workers to reach patients in remote areas, increasing access to treatment and reducing malaria-related complications,” Ms. Chitambala-Otiono said.
She further revealed that the malaria mortality rate in Zambia has decreased by 28 percent, thanks to interventions from Zambia Sugar and other stakeholders. She emphasized that community-based treatment is crucial in alleviating the burden on health facilities and saving lives.
“When you treat a patient within the community, you not only reduce the burden at health facilities but also improve survival rates by ensuring timely access to treatment,” she added.
Ms. Chitambala-Otiono also shared that the center aims to train 40,000 community health workers in malaria elimination, with 25,000 already trained. She expressed optimism that continued support from partners like Zambia Sugar would accelerate progress toward a malaria-free Zambia.
The donation marks another milestone in the fight against malaria, reinforcing the importance of public-private partnerships in tackling one of Zambia’s major health challenges.