Zulum takes action against Malaria threats- orders sanitation and drainage clearance in Borno.

Ibrahim Umar
Kanempress
8th, August,2023

To combat the spread of malaria, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has issued a directive to the Borno State Environmental Protection Agency (BOSEPA) to swiftly remove heaps of refuse in Maiduguri and its surrounding areas as well as clear drains throughout the state.

Abubakar Suleiman, the General Manager of BOSEPA revealed to the kanempress that, this sanitary initiative aims to eliminate breeding grounds for mosquitoes which are carriers of the malaria parasite.

In addition to the garbage evacuation and drainage clearance, the Governor has established a committee to oversee the fumigation of the entire state in preparation for the upcoming rainy season. This comprehensive approach aims to further curb the outbreak of malaria.

According to the Permanent Secretary of the Borno State Ministry of Environment Mr Habib Goni, the government has taken proactive measures to tackle the issue of stagnant water and mosquito breeding in the state. The newly constituted committee responsible for environmental sanitation and flood control has already begun clearing drainages and waterways to ensure the free flow of water.

To further combat diseases like malaria, Governor Zulum has approved the purchase of machinery to effectively clear drainages in Maiduguri and its environs. This process will eliminate the breeding ground for mosquitoes and mitigate the risk of malaria transmission. In addition to clearance the government has allocated funds for the procurement of disinfectants and chemicals to disinfect the entire state.

With the onset of the rainy season, flood control becomes a key concern. Mr Habib Goni assures the public that if everyone follows the established guidelines for proper waste disposal, flooding will become a thing of the past in Borno. By actively participating in environmental cleanliness and disposing of waste appropriately, residents can contribute to creating a safer and healthier state.

He urged residents to refrain from disposing garbage in waterways cautioning that enforcement would commence immediately following the drainage cleaning process.

The Permanent Secretary stressed “The flood control committee has been entrusted with the task of monitoring the flood situation in the state. I am pleased to report that their findings indicate no significant threat in any part of the state.”

“But this does not mean we can be complacent. We must still take proactive measures to prepare for potential flooding. Fortunately the committee has been proactive and I am confident they have the necessary resources to handle any emergencies that may arise.”