…Launches Liberia Malaria Youth Corps
(Monrovia, Liberia, December 5, 2024)—In an effort to eradicate malaria in Liberia, the Ministry of Health (MOH) today launched the Liberia Malaria Youth Corps (LMYC) at the Corina Hotel in Monrovia. With support from the African Leaders Malaria Alliance (ALMA), the initiative represents a step toward addressing malaria that continues to disproportionately affect the most vulnerable members of the nation’s population, including children under five, pregnant women, and those living in underserved areas. Dr. Yatta Wapoe, National Malaria Control Program’s Deputy Program Manager, proxy for Dr. Catherine Cooper, Chief Medical Officer of the Republic of Liberia. She expressed enthusiasm for this initiative and said it would empower young people to take an active role in the fight against malaria. Dr. Wapoe noted: “The Liberia Malaria Youth Corps will harness the energy, creativity, and innovation of young people, equipping them to become advocates for change and active participants in our national malaria control strategies.”
The Liberia Malaria Youth Corps is an essential part of strengthening Liberia’s health interventions. Dr. Wapoe urged all Liberians, especially the youth, to join the fight against malaria. She emphasized: “Malaria is preventable and treatable. With collective action and the involvement of our youth, we can achieve a malaria-free Liberia,” saying: “On behalf of the Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Catherine Cooper, the Ministry of Health extends gratitude to all partners, including ALMA, PMI, CRS, and other stakeholders, for their continued support. Today, we call on the youth to lead this charge. Together, let us commit to a healthier, malaria-free Liberia.
Dr. Trokon Washington, Director of NMCP, elaborated on the current situation: “Malaria disproportionately affects vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, children under five, and individuals with compromised immune systems. The need for innovative approaches and community engagement is urgent.” The Liberia Malaria Youth Corps will be involved with raising public awareness about the use of insecticide-treated nets, the importance of seeking prompt treatment, and maintaining clean environments to combat malaria, mobilizing youth to lead community health initiatives, ensuring people in rural areas have access to malaria prevention and treatment resources, encouraging increased investment in malaria prevention and treatment at both community and national levels, assisting in the distribution of mosquito nets, facilitating access to vaccines, and promoting compliance with malaria interventions. The Ministry of Health remains committed to combating malaria and improving the health and well-being of all Liberians.