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Kampala, Uganda: The MTN Foundation, MTN’s CSR arm has partnered with the Malaria Consortium in the fight against Malaria. The Malaria Consortium is a non-profit organization that works to combat malaria and other communicable diseases among the poorest and most vulnerable people in Africa and Asia.
During a media briefing at the NGO’s offices in Kololo, MTN Foundation Chairman George Egaddu handed over a dummy cheque worth UGX 200 million as support for the various Malaria eradication projects run by the NGO. Mr. Egaddu also emphasized the Foundation’s commitment to the Malaria eradication drive in Uganda.
“Regardless of the numerous relentless efforts displayed by organizations like the Malaria Consortium, this killer disease has marred the continent for more than a century. It is therefore upon us responsible corporate citizens to step in and lend a hand to this worthwhile cause.
“This partnership will not only contribute to a malaria-free society but will also bring us a step closer to achieving the millennium development goals.” He added.
While highlighting the steps taken by the Consortium in the fight against Malaria, The Vector Control Specialist Malaria Consortium Africa Dr Kate Kolaczinski hinted on the uphill task that still lies ahead.
“It is estimated that malaria causes up to 3 million deaths in a year. However, the proportion of households with at least one net has doubled between 2000 and 2004 increasing from 13.2% to 25,9% and mechanisms are put in place to allow a rapid increase of net distribution in the future.”
“In addition, home based delivery of anti-malaria medicine to children under 5 years has been rolled-out nationwide.” She confirmed.
In the same breath, Dr Kolaczinski cemented that in the next five years measurable impact can be achieved. She divulged that a successful approach of re-treating mosquito nets through free mass campaigns has been established and plans are ready for a larger scale application of indoor residual spraying.
Launched in November 2007, this is the MTN Foundation’s first venture in 2008 as MTN marks 10 years of positive presence in people’s lives. Last year, the Foundation donated UGX 200 million towards the Uganda Red Cross relief efforts in the flood stricken areas.
The MTN Foundation has interventions in six programme areas which include education (science & technology), Health & HIV Aids, Music, Arts & Culture Environment, Community Development and Habitat for Humanity.
About the MTN GROUP
Launched in 1994, the MTN Group is a multinational telecommunications group, operating in 21 countries in Africa, Asia and the Middle East. The MTN Group is listed on the JSE Securities Exchange in South Africa under the share code: "MTN". As at 30 September 2009, MTN recorded 108,4 million subscribers across its operations in Afghanistan, Benin, Botswana, Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire, Cyprus, Ghana, Guinea Bissau, Guinea Republic, Iran, Liberia, Nigeria, Republic of Congo (Congo Brazzaville), Rwanda, South Africa, Sudan, Swaziland, Syria, Uganda, Yemen and Zambia. The MTN Group is a global sponsor of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ and has exclusive mobile content rights for Africa and the Middle East. Please visit www.mtn.com andwww.mtnfootball.com
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