International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Calls Attention to World Malaria Day
The Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies have declared April 25 as World Malaria Day to bring attention to the fight against malaria. The distribution of malaria nets has been effective but must be "accompanied by extensive and prolonged community education and empowerment efforts". Once again, the solution to our global problems lies in education and community building. The most effective volunteer educators "come from the very same communities (which) makes them more capable to understand and cope with social and cultural issues that might arise over the use of the nets".
This is interesting food for thought for me. What are the local problems that we can address in our own community? Some initial thoughts that come to mind are literacy, education, environmental protection, empowerment of women and girls. Comments and suggestions are welcome and encouraged!
2 Comments:
I passed at least 15 runners in the CM Marathon in Nashville who were running to raise money for fighting malaria. In this part of the world it is not much noted, but is a huge problem in so many other parts of the world as you know. It is a horribly debilitating disease.
Speaking of empowerment of girls and women, at the race this weekend and based on the results, nearly 2/3 of the half marathoners were women (nearly 23,000 racers) and I think about half or more of the full marathoners were women. I love seeing the "run like a girl shirts" cause I wish I could run as well as most of them do and I freely admit that. When I was growing up, athletics for women were not encouraged, and especially not anything high endurance. I find this (the changes) really encouraging. And also to see people of all races running together, cheering together, high fiving each other, and celebrating each others results together, in a city in the deep south, was just wonderful. I am still trying to wipe the smile off my face! Art
Thank you so much for sharing that, Art! The race sounds fabulous, what a wonderful experience! Glad to hear there were so many women involved, and also a mix of races. Valuing good health is certainly a global concern that we all share.
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