Editorial
Speed up progress to create a healthier, malaria-free future
World Mosquito Day offers a chance to bring attention to the threats posed by diseases spread by mosquitoes and the continuous fight against the deadliest animal on the planet.
The yearly event honours Sir Ronald Ross, a British physician who proved in 1897 that mosquitoes are the vector of malaria.
According to Sir Ronald Ross, the malaria parasite was found to be spread by Anopheles mosquitoes.
In honour of this significant finding in the battle against malaria, every year, August 20 is observed as World Mosquito Day.
The theme for World Mosquito Day 2025 is “Accelerating the Fight Against Malaria for a More Equitable World,” which emphasises how critical it is to remove obstacles to the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of malaria, particularly in underprivileged and vulnerable areas.
Despite medical improvements, millions of people still suffer from mosquito-borne illnesses every year, especially in tropical countries and prevention remains the best defense against these infections.
However, experts contend that eliminating this species would be morally wrong because mosquitoes, like other living things, have inherent value. Similarly, pest control experts say that whereas female mosquitoes bite day and night, male mosquitoes do not bite and instead feed on plant nectar and other sugar sources.
Despite their ecological importance as pollinators and food for other animals eliminating mosquitoes is essential to preventing nuisance bites and the pain and death of hundreds of millions of people.
In light of this the African Media and Malaria Research Network (AMMREN) joined the global community last Wednesday in bringing attention to the pressing need to eradicate malaria and advance health equality.
AMMREN is a registered non-governmental organisation made up of African journalists and scientists working together towards the control and elimination of malaria.
According to AMMREN every life counts, and by working together, we can bridge the gaps in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention,
AMMREN therefore calls on everyone to unite together to speed up progress and create a healthier, malaria-free future.
In solidarity with AMMREN, The Spectator encourages people to support community initiatives and concentrate on preventative measures such as using treated mosquito nets, repellent and making sure the surroundings are sanitary.
Individuals and groups can also fight for legislation that prioritise the eradication of malaria, raise awareness and support organisations that seek to control the disease.
Dear Editor,
THE Ghana Education Service (GES) has announced that most Senior High Schools (SHSs) will return to the single-track system by this month.
For many students and parents, this feels like a relief. But before we move on, we must take a moment to reflect.
The double-track system helped thousands of students get into schools. It gave hope to families who couldn’t afford private education. But it also came with challenges.
Some students had shorter terms, others had longer breaks. Teachers were stretched, and learning felt rushed. Many students felt left behind not because they didn’t try, but because the system didn’t give them enough time.
Now that we’re returning to single-track, let’s make sure we don’t repeat the mistakes of the past. We need more classrooms, better planning, and support for teachers.
Education is not just about getting into school. It’s about feeling safe and supported. Let’s build a system that gives every child a real chance.
Beatrice Princess Kpeglah,
Dansoman
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Dear Editor
As it is critical for preserving our surroundings, there is the urgent need for increased awareness and action to protect Ghana’s environment and resources.
Ghana’s forest reserves, vast savannas and scenic coastlines serve as homes and habitats to a wide range of flora and fauna, including several endangered species.
Our vegetation and rich soil deposits provide the nation with food, plants and animal resources, which ensures food availability and accessibility for the population.
However, the country’s environment is facing numerous threats including deforestation, overexploitation, pollution, etc.
The importance of environmental conservation cannot be overstated; our natural resources are the backbone of our economy, playing a vital role in driving the country’s economic growth and development.
It is therefore critical that we take actions to protect them for our future generations.
There is the need for collective action to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable development.
Environmentalists, various organizations and private individuals must come on board to promote environmental conservation, through tree planting exercises, clean-up campaigns, and resource conservation practices.
These efforts, when carried out effectively, would create a long-lasting impact in protecting and conserving the country’s environment.
The Ghanaian government should also implement policies and conduct regular programmes aimed at promoting environmental conservation.
By Theresa Tsetse Dzifa,
Bubiashie
