Pimar walks for life: community rallies to end malaria deaths

31 March 2025, 11:51

By Opio Terensio

Pimar Charity Foundation Uganda, in conjunction with the Uganda Parliamentary Forum on Malaria and the Government, organised a walk against malaria on 29th March 2025 at Bongtiko sub county, Pader district, under the theme “No One Should Die of Malaria.”

This community-driven event aimed to raise awareness about malaria and reduce its prevalence in the district. It took place at Lapul St Mary Primary School, Bongtiko sub county, Pader district.

The day began with a malaria awareness walk from Lawiri Health Centre II to Lapul St Mary Primary School, with Most Rev. Raphael P’ Mony Wokorach, Archbishop of Gulu Archdiocese, leading the procession as the Chief Guest.

In his address, Archbishop Wokorach emphasised the urgent need to focus on malaria prevention, particularly for young children and vulnerable populations, and urged the community to actively get tested.

LC3 Chairperson Mr. Kilama Lugele praised Hon. Santa Okot’s efforts in the fight against malaria and appealed to the government for the upgrade of Lawiri Health Centre II, as well as the establishment of more health facilities in the sub county.

Residents expressed concerns over the lack of health infrastructure, which impedes effective malaria treatment.

Hon. Santa Okot highlighted that similar campaigns had been held in other sub counties, including Acholibur.

During an advocacy and sensitisation meeting held on 3rd October 2024, aimed at mobilising community support for a vaccination campaign set to launch in April 2025, Cyprian Odong, Pader’s malaria focal person, revealed alarming statistics. “Out of 230,086 individuals tested for malaria in Pader, 125,159 tested positive, resulting in a concerning 54% infection rate,” Odong disclosed.

Pader district is ranked second in malaria prevalence within the Acholi sub region and third nationwide.