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On Friday, November 15, 2024, Dr. Artem Volchenko, the Chief Executive Officer of the Save Africa From Malaria Infections (SAFMI) Foundation, delivered a compelling message to young entrepreneurs and leaders at the Institute of Public Administration and Management (IPAM), University of Sierra Leone.
The event, organized in collaboration with the Anti-Glossophobia Academy, revolved around the theme, “The Economic Commercialization of Malaria Treatment in the 21st Century.” It was an inspiring call to action, urging participants to reimagine malaria not merely as a health crisis but as an opportunity for innovation and economic growth.
In his opening remarks, IPAM’s Students Union President, Mr. Mohamed S. Bangura, commended SAFMI Foundation for choosing IPAM as the venue for such a transformative discussion. He encouraged students to absorb the lecture’s insights and leverage their entrepreneurial talents to address pressing societal issues like malaria.
Alhaji Dauda Bangura, SAFMI Foundation’s Country Representative for Sierra Leone and a lecturer at IPAM, outlined SAFMI’s innovative strategies for malaria prevention. He highlighted the foundation’s use of Gambusia fish, a natural method for controlling mosquito populations by targeting larvae. This approach, he explained, has already provided measurable relief in communities where it has been implemented, illustrating the effectiveness of SAFMI’s intervention.
Dr. Volchenko, who traveled thousands of miles from his home to Sierra Leone, received praise for his dedication to the cause of fighting malaria in Africa. His willingness to leave his home to be present in Sierra Leone underscored his commitment to making a lasting impact on the continent’s health challenges
In his keynote address, Dr. Volchenko highlighted the extensive economic toll of malaria, affecting key sectors such as agriculture, education, healthcare, and tourism. He stressed that while substantial resources are directed towards combating malaria, there is significant potential for entrepreneurship to complement these efforts through innovative technologies, social enterprises, and partnerships with governments and NGOs.
One of the key highlights of the lecture was SAFMI’s innovative approach to combating malaria, particularly through the introduction of Gambusia fish to reduce mosquito larvae populations. Dr. Volchenko shared success stories of how this solution has had a positive impact in areas where it has been implemented, offering a model for innovative interventions in public health.
Dr. Volchenko urged the students to take an active role in addressing malaria by exploring entrepreneurial opportunities, collaborating with stakeholders, and leveraging funding resources to create long-term solutions that can improve public health while fostering economic growth.
“Malaria should not just be seen as a crisis,” he stated. “It is an opportunity to innovate, create sustainable solutions, and drive economic growth while saving lives.”
Dr. Prisca Ndu, from SAFMI’s Nigeria Chapter, also addressed the gathering, encouraging students to see social challenges like malaria as opportunities for both impact and wealth creation. She praised the lecture as a powerful initiative aimed at empowering the next generation of Sierra Leonean changemakers.
Adding to the momentum, Yuri, the founder of SAFMI, was also present at the event and pledged to use his resources to intensify the fight against malaria in Sierra Leone. His commitment, alongside Dr. Volchenko’s, underscores the dedication of SAFMI to improving health outcomes in Africa.
By the end of the lecture, the audience was inspired and energized, ready to take on the challenge of finding innovative solutions to one of Africa’s most pressing health issues. Dr. Volchenko’s visit was a powerful reminder of how entrepreneurial spirit can be harnessed to address public health challenges and drive meaningful change
