THIRTY-ONE individuals from various sub-districts across Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) have successfully completed a six-week microscopist training programme organised by the Ministry of Health.

The initiative forms part of the ministry’s ongoing efforts to combat malaria and marks a significant step toward the region’s goal of becoming the first in Guyana to eliminate the disease.

The ministry’s investment in local capacity building through training and surveillance continues to play a crucial role in achieving national public health goals.

At the graduation ceremony held at the training centre in Lethem recently, the Honourable Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, highlighted the region’s substantial progress in malaria control.

He noted that between 2023 and 2024, Region Nine recorded a remarkable 53 per cent reduction in malaria cases—well above the national decline of 16 per cent. With a current incidence rate of just 34.6 cases per 1,000 people, the region now qualifies as a very low transmission zone.

“Region Nine is leading the way, and we believe it can be the first to eliminate malaria. This is a remarkable achievement, and it reflects the dedication of our frontline health workers and the commitment of the people of this region,” he said.

Targeted efforts have identified high-incidence areas such as the Marudi Mining Mountain and Aishalton, while active tracking of malaria cases is helping to contain the disease’s spread. The ministry has also deployed Malaria kits, which allow individuals in remote and mining areas to self-diagnose and do follow-up care with healthcare workers for treatment.

The graduates of the microscopist programme were encouraged to see themselves as essential contributors to public health in the region and were assured of continued employment and training opportunities within the Ministry of Health.

Dr. Anthony also highlighted the government’s substantial investments in the regional health infrastructure.

Following a USD 1 million refurbishment of the Lethem Hospital in 2021, a new state-of-the-art regional hospital is under construction in the same compound. The new facility will feature modern surgical theatres, diagnostic services including CT scans, and increased capacity to serve not just Guyanese residents but also patients from neighbouring Brazil.

“These investments demonstrate our commitment to bringing high-quality health care to every corner of Guyana,” the minister said. “What we are building in Lethem is not just a hospital, but a model for equitable healthcare access across the nation.”

The ministry reaffirmed its goal to expand malaria elimination efforts to Regions One, Seven Nine and Eight, drawing on successful strategies piloted in Region Nine. (MoH)