Japan extends aid in malaria control

By ZARA KANU
THE Japanese government has extended its assistance to the malaria surveillance and control unit (MSCU) in Goroka, Eastern Highlands province with a grant worth US$77,858 (K217,309) to be used for the implementation of a development project.
Japanese ambassador to PNG Kanji Hanagata said: “Health is a fundamental component of human development and I understand the PNG Government has worked very hard on the improving the health services as one of the priority areas of national development.
“Your tireless efforts are very much commendable and the government of Japan remains committed to supporting your efforts,” Mr Hanagata said.
The project aims to renovate the facilities and upgrade laboratory and training equipment at the MSCU, which plays a major role in the surveillance and control of malaria epidemics.
The most serious public health problem in the country comes from the Highlands region and this contribution is timely for MSCU.
The MSCU is seen as the launching pad to all other highlands provinces to improve and effectively monitor the outcome of malaria.
It is projected that it will effect a significant improvement in the capability of technicians to perform clinical tests in the diagnosis and treatment of malaria.
Health secretary Dr Clement Malau said an average of 600 people die from malaria every year were not inclusive of those that seek private health care.
“The more we monitor the disease, the more we are able to respond to the outcome of the disease,” he said.
This is the latest of the many contributions that Japan has put towards development in the country especially in terms of health services which is considered as one of the important areas of development.
This is significant to the Papua New Guinea Government as it strengthens the existing friendly relationship and true partnership between Japan and PNG.