At least 500 Christian leaders have been trained as malaria ambassadors as part of a nationwide campaign led by the Ministry of Health and Child Care, in partnership with the Faith Leader Advocates for Malaria Elimination.
The programme, being rolled out across the country, is meant to equip clergy from various religious groups to lead awareness, prevention, and early treatment initiatives for malaria within their communities.
Speaking at a recent training workshop in Mutare, Manicaland Provincial Medical Director Dr Munyaradzi Mukuzunga said the initiative forms part of wider efforts to strengthen community responses to malaria.
He added that the nationwide rollout represents a major step forward in Zimbabwe’s push to eliminate the disease through active community engagement. Said Mukuzunga:
“We have been engaging religious leaders from various churches and faiths on malaria training over the past two days.
“These leaders are critical in helping us reach communities with life-saving information.”
He said the trained faith leaders are expected to act as ambassadors, educating their congregations on malaria prevention, spotting symptoms early, and seeking prompt treatment.
Bishop Jeremiah Mangiza of the Methodist Church in Zimbabwe explained that the programme was set up after recognising both the impact of malaria on communities and the influence of religious institutions.
He added that over 500 faith leaders have already been trained, with plans to expand the scheme further.
Bishop Mangiza said the voluntary programme is meant to support government efforts, using existing church and religious networks to spread information effectively.
Reverend Clifford Nunu Ndlovu, also from the Methodist Church in Zimbabwe, said the church has a duty to play an active role in addressing public health issues.
More: The Herald
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