Malaria Research Program Launched in East Sumba, in the Village of Umalulu
In Umalulu, Fair Future and Rotary face challenges including malaria, poor sanitation, inadequate infrastructure and education.
In Umalulu, East Sumba, where malaria affects nearly half the population, the Fair Future Foundation and Kawan Baik Indonesia, in collaboration with Rotary International, launched a major study to understand how to combat this scourge. Malaria, a deadly disease caused by Plasmodium parasites transmitted through the bites of Anopheles mosquitoes, poses significant health problems in tropical regions, such as East Sumba. This collaborative initiative, launched at the Melolo Puskesmas (Local Health Centre), aims to combine health data collection, field research, and direct support for affected families.
During our visit, we witnessed alarming health and education issues. At a local school, many children aged 6 to 8 were actively battling malaria while attending class. The lack of electricity and clean water at the school not only hinders education but also exacerbates the spread of malaria, as stagnant water can provide ideal conditions for mosquito breeding.
Our initiative aims to raise community awareness about nutritional health, the risks associated with tobacco and alcohol use, and malaria prevention strategies. We introduced students to SolarBuddy lamps, a sustainable alternative lighting solution essential in areas without electricity. These solar lamps provide vital light for studying and enhance home safety at night.
Disturbingly, many children prematurely disclosed their tobacco and alcohol use, highlighting the need for rigorous health education programs. The school principal emphasised the critical importance of improving sanitation infrastructure, highlighting existing gaps in access to clean water and toilets.
In discussions with local leaders, including the village chief and three deputy chiefs, we observed a shared commitment to collaborative solutions. This effort marks a crucial step toward improving public health, understanding disease patterns, and providing sustainable tools, such as solar lighting, sanitation, and education, to transform and energise the community.
We cordially invite all captivated by this story to explore our photo gallery, witness this extraordinary effort, and further engage with our mission through our Instagram account.
Alex Wettstein – Fair Future Foundation medico-social camp in East Sumba – Rumah Kambera, Lambanapu – the 17h of April 2025
