A drama was performed for World Malaria Day 2012 in three villages near Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania to educate villagers about malaria prevention and treatment. The drama depicted one child being taken to a witchdoctor and dying of malaria while another child was taken to a dispensary and cured. This event addressed high rates of malaria, HIV/AIDS, and worm infection in the community that contributed to missed work and school. Through the combined efforts of community groups and a Peace Corps volunteer, over 40% of villagers gained knowledge about malaria prevention, 50 nets were distributed, and free testing and medication was provided for malaria and worms. Ongoing collaboration between villagers and organizations aims to continue education to improve community health and reduce poverty.

1. World Malaria Day on Mt. Kilimanjaro 2012
The day begins with a child being taken to the
witchdoctor to rid her of demons giving her sickness.
Meanwhile, the neighbor takes their child to the
dispensary for the same sickness. In a few days the first
child has subcomb to her demons and is buried, while the
second child takes the last dose of medicine to cure her
malaria.
This drama is performed by Mandaka college students on
the side of Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania with the aim of educating three neighboring villages
during an event for World Malaria Day 2012. These efforts are addressing three local issues;
1% of the population (1000 people) and 20% of the students are suffering from malaria every
year. The HIV/AIDS transmission rate .3%; and, worm infestation affects over 1/3 of the
community at any time (this only includes cases documented at local dispensary).
The chance of being affected by one of these issues leads to time missed at work, in the
fields, caring for children, fetching water, attendance at school, and educational opportunities;
thus, contributing to keeping families in poverty.
The project was put together by a network of elders and officials
from Masaera, Kyura and Kilemachini Villages, CBO Masaera
Community Development Program, local schools, Mandaka
Dispensary, and a Peace Corps Volunteer. These combined efforts
help solve development needs through awareness, skill building
activities, professional educators and relaying information about
local resources.
40% of community members obtained new skills in Malaria
prevention. 50 treated nets were given to those most in need, so
they can now hang there nets and protect themselves and family
members. 40 people were given free malaria tests and medication.
The community was informed that pregnant women and children
can get a voucher to buy a net at 500tsh. Now many can afford a
net they would not have bought due to the typical cost 5000tsh. 10 people were counseled
and tested for HIV/AIDS and 30 children were able to get medication for worm infestation.
When taking a random survey of who used a net, some respondents said there are no
mosquitoes in the area. These individuals are now educated on local malaria rates, using a
net, havening the walls treated and how it effects everyone in the community if some people
don't take precaution.
Now six villagers have solidified efforts with the local CBO, NGO,
Schools and villagers to continue to work on education and
awareness focused on these three issues to help keep everyone
healthy, at work and at school. Keeping everyone healthy will aid in
the global fight against poverty.
Handing out mosquito nets
Watching a drama performed by students
Villagers receiving medicine
Nets given to those in need