Orange Group Reinforces Commitment to Health Equity, Malaria Eradication

In recognition of the 2024 World Malaria Day theme: Gender, Health Equity, and Human Rights with the slogan Accelerating the fight against malaria for a more equitable world, Orange Group, a leading Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) company, in a statement reiterated its commitment to ensuring everyone has a fair chance at preventing and treating malaria.

Orange Group champions health equity by providing affordable solutions like Gardia, the lightweight non-allergenic mosquito repellent cream that provides protection from mosquitoes and insect bites for 8 hours. In addition to Gardia, they also provide Laris, an anti-malarial medication formulated with the World Health Organization (WHO)-recommended first-line treatment of 480mg Lumefantrine and 80mg Artemether.

Uchenna Ezenna, Orange Group’s Media and Communications Director, emphasises the company’s core mission; “At Orange Group, we are dedicated to developing innovative healthcare solutions that are accessible and affordable. By providing Gardia and Laris, we directly address the 2024 World Malaria Day theme, promoting health equity and human rights in the fight against this devastating disease disproportionately impacting Nigeria in particular and Africa as a whole.”

Nigeria faces a critical public health challenge with malaria. While Africa bears the brunt of the disease globally (accounting for 94% of cases and 95% of deaths in 2022 according to the WHO), Nigeria’s situation is particularly concerning. A staggering 26.8% of all malaria cases and a shocking 31.1% of all malaria deaths in Africa occurred in Nigeria in 2022.

Beyond providing affordable solutions, Orange Group is also actively championing health equity through impactful community initiatives which include a sensitization walk on malaria prevention and treatment in Ajeromi Ifelodun, Lagos State on World Malaria Day, 25^th April, 2024. This walk will include free malaria testing and distribution of both Laris and Gardia to participants.

On the same day, the company will also be conducting sensitization sessions on malaria and prevention methods targeted towards pregnant women in primary health centres across Oshodi and Surulere L.G.As of Lagos State. These sessions will also include the distribution of Gardia to expecting mothers.

Ezenna elaborates, “Our greatest reward lies in ensuring affordability and accessibility for everyday Nigerians. We go beyond just offering innovative products. By making Gardia and Laris affordable and readily available throughout Nigeria, regardless of socio-economic background, and by implementing impactful community initiatives, Orange Group actively dismantles barriers to healthcare equity.”

By prioritising affordability, accessibility, and community engagement, Orange Group champions the 2024 World Malaria Day theme, working towards a world where everyone has the right to health and protection from this preventable disease.

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