By Omodele Adigun
In commemoration of World Malaria Day, Lafarge Africa Plc, an innovative and sustainable building solutions company has flagged off its annual medical outreach, benefiting thousands of people in its host communities across Cross River State.
This initiative according to the organiser is part of Lafarge Africa’s ongoing commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) aimed at enhancing the quality of life for residents in the communities where it operates.
The medical outreach program will focus on health education, where attendees will learn about malaria prevention techniques, such as the use of insecticide-treated nets and environmental management. In addition, participants will have access to medical tests, consultations and free medications to address various health concerns throughout the month of May.
Speaking during the flag-off ceremony at AkwaIkotEffanga, Community, Commissioner for Health, Cross River State, Dr. Egbe Ayuk, commended Lafarge Africa for being a proactive partner with the state with its consistency in health interventions and service delivery. “I must thank Lafarge that has done so much in this state. We cannot thank them enough. I want to say that we appreciate what you’re doing in the communities.”
In alignment with the theme for this year’s World Malaria Day, “Health Equity, Gender and Human Rights,” Director General, State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Vivian Otu, appreciated Lafarge Africa for its continual support towards eradicating malaria in the state and called for increased support, particularly for pregnant women and children.
“Our goal is to address the disparities associated with malaria, and by doing so, create healthier communities that are free from malaria in Cross River state.”
In his remarks, the Plant Manager, Lafarge Africa Plc, Sitirios Valsamakis, who was represented by the Human Resources Business Partner, Mfamosing Plant, Barong Ita, highlighted the company’s commitment to CSR and community wellbeing: “Every year, we continue to impact members of our host communities with our health intervention. This year, we are glad to be expanding our scope to reach the most vulnerable persons with free and quality medical health services tailored to their needs in our respective communities.”
A representative of the Community Relations Committee for AkwaIkotEffanga Community, Elder Chief Christy Ise, acknowledging Lafarge’s impact, said: “I thank God for what Lafarge have done for us today. In fact, since I was born, I’ve not seen anything of this magnitude.”
Also, speaking on behalf of the community, a primary school teacher at AkwaIkotEffanga Community, Judith Ani Edet, stated: “I want to thank Lafarge for what they’ve done for us. I am so happy because our mothers, grandmothers and parents that have been sick, Lafarge have been able to treat them of malaria and other illnesses.”
The event was attended by representatives of the government, Staff Volunteers, members of the Community Relations Committee (CRC), and members of the community.