The Save Africa from Malaria Infection (SAFMI) Foundation, spearheaded by Executive Director Artem Volchenko, has launched a major initiative to combat malaria in Freetown. On August 20, 2024, the organization distributed over 100 artificial fish ponds to local hospitals and communities across the city.

This initiative, warmly received by community leaders and health centers in Freetown’s Western Area, aims to curb malaria by introducing Gambusia Affinis—mosquito-eating fish known for their ability to significantly reduce mosquito populations.

The distribution was overseen by SAFMI’s Country Coordinator, Alhaji Dauda Musa Bangura, and Board Member Vitali Ginsburg. These ponds, stocked with the mosquito-eating fish, are intended to serve both as a practical tool for mosquito control and as an educational resource on malaria prevention. Bangura highlighted that the Gambusia Affinis fish can consume up to 300 mosquito larvae within minutes, offering a natural and effective solution to malaria control.

He emphasized that this project is part of SAFMI’s broader commitment to public health and environmental sustainability. The organization’s goal is to strategically deploy these fish in water bodies around Freetown, thereby reducing the spread of malaria—a major health threat in Sierra Leone.

SAFMI has also trained local volunteers on how to manage and maintain these fish ponds. The foundation is actively educating communities on the benefits of using this biological method to prevent malaria. The success of this project in Freetown is expected to set the stage for its expansion to other regions of Sierra Leone and potentially to other African nations.

Community Health Officers expressed their gratitude for SAFMI’s timely intervention. Hindolo Musa, Senior Community Health Officer at Dwarzark Community Health Center, praised the initiative, noting the high prevalence of malaria in their area. Mariatu Sankoh of the Lumley Community Health Center described the donation as a life-saving gesture and assured that the community would make full use of the fish ponds.

With malaria continuing to be a leading cause of illness and death across Africa, SAFMI’s initiative represents a significant step forward in the fight against this deadly disease. By harnessing the natural predation habits of Gambusia Affinis, SAFMI is making a substantial impact on malaria control efforts in Sierra Leone.