The Peace Corps and Malaria No More, an organization determined to end malaria deaths in Africa by 2015, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) October 31, 2011 to combine forces in malaria prevention in Africa.
“Peace Corps volunteers serve in some of the most remote areas of the world, working at the grassroots level to prevent malaria by distributing bed nets and finding innovative ways to educate communities,” said Peace Corps Director Aaron S. Williams. “This partnership gives volunteers more resources and utilize existing infrastructure to help eradicate deaths due to this preventable disease.”
"Peace Corps volunteers are great ambassadors for America around the globe," said Dr. David Bowen, incoming CEO of Malaria No More. "Their involvement reaffirms America's commitment to the global campaign to end deaths from malaria."
Through the partnership, the Peace Corps and Malaria No More will coordinate the training of Peace Corps volunteers and staff, work together to educate local communities on malaria prevention, and engage returned Peace Corps volunteers in malaria awareness-raising activities in the United States through the Malaria Griots Project.
Peace Corps volunteers will support NightWatch a nightly reminder campaign, developed by Malaria No More and Lalela Project, that brings together Africa’s biggest stars to encourage people to sleep under their mosquito net through TV, radio and SMS platforms. Peace Corps volunteers will also support the Zinduka! campaign (Swahili for “Wake up!”), a media and celebrity engagement initiative that empowers communities and schools across Tanzania with the knowledge and tools to fight malaria and create a culture of mosquito net usage, testing and appropriate treatment.
Recently, the Peace Corps launched “Stomping Out Malaria in Africa,” an Africa-wide malaria prevention initiative to train and coordinate 3,000 volunteers across 25 countries in Africa to support the malaria prevention activities of local communities, health care providers, national malaria control programs, and key partners including the President's Malaria Initiative.
About the Peace Corps
President John F. Kennedy established the Peace Corps on March 1, 1961, by executive order. Throughout 2011, Peace Corps is commemorating 50 years of promoting peace and friendship around the world. Historically, more than 200,000 Americans have served with the Peace Corps to promote a better understanding between Americans and the people of 139 host countries. Today, 9,095 volunteers are working with local communities in 75 host countries. Peace Corps volunteers must be U.S. citizens and at least 18 years of age. Peace Corps service is a 27-month commitment. Visit www.peacecorps.gov for more information.
