The National Malaria Control Programme (NMCP), led by Madam Ngadi Lombi, recently visited the Save Africa From Malaria Infection (SAFMI) facility to assess the progress of its innovative malaria control initiative.The visit focused on evaluating the breeding and deployment of Gambusia affinis—a species of fish known for its ability to consume mosquito larvae and serve as a natural solution for reducing malaria transmission. Additionally, discussions were held regarding potential governmental support for expanding the initiative and increasing the number of Gambusia fish tanks across whole Sierra Leone.
During the visit, Frederick Yamba, Team Lead for Integrated Vector Control Management, praised SAFMI’s efforts, calling it one of the most commendable interventions in the fight against malaria in Sierra Leone: “This project is a game-changer,” Yamba stated. “We are pleased that Sierra Leone was chosen for this innovative intervention, and we pledge our full support to ensure its success.”
SAFMI’s National Ambassador, Alhaji Dauda Musa, speaking on behalf of CEO Mr. Artem Volchenko, reaffirmed the foundation’s unwavering commitment to malaria eradication: “We are deeply passionate about this mission, which is why we provide Gambusia fish, water tanks, and full maintenance services completely free of charge in Sierra Leone,” Musa stated.
He emphasized SAFMI’s eagerness to collaborate with the NMCP and other governmental bodies to maximize the project’s impact. Efforts are underway to advocate for SAFMI’s initiatives through the Ministry of Health, as well as local and international partnerships.
Madam Ngadi Lombi, the NMCP’s Partnership Focal Person, commended SAFMI’s dedication and encouraged ongoing collaboration between the two organizations: “This initiative is extraordinary,” she remarked. “Even in the absence of our Program Manager, we will ensure that one of the fish ponds is set up so he can personally experience this outstanding project.”
At SAFMI, we believe in a sustainable approach to malaria prevention by leveraging the natural mosquito-control abilities of Gambusia fish. With continued support from the NMCP and other stakeholders, our innovative method has the potential to serve as a model for malaria control across the West African region—a mission we are eager to extend beyond Sierra Leone. The growing partnership between SAFMI and the NMCP marks a significant step forward in the fight against malaria, with the potential to save countless lives and improve public health across the nation.