I was alarmed hearing Odisha takes 40% of the malaria burden in India when it carries 3% of Indian population and 4% of the land. But good thing is, India has launched an ambitious National Framework to eliminate Malaria by 2030. It has formed a National Malaria Coalition with MNM (Malaria No More) and many private/public sector organizations.
Recently, MNM CEO Martin Edlmund reached out to some members of Odisha society on this. Martin & Anjali Kaur, MNM India Head, met with us last week to discuss their Odisha plan and looking for a strategic partnership with OSA. We were impressed with their plan on making Odisha their success model for other states and aiming to eliminate malaria by 2027. MNM will support the current government effort by providing technical assistance, driving strategy and innovation, and developing a strong and coordinated partner network to support implementation and close capacity gaps. Some work have started giving them a lot of confidence.
As their India program continues to develop, they anticipate a variety of opportunities to collaborate with OSA, including:
– Contributing to strategy as it develops
– Reinforcing political relationships in Odisha State and influencing CM to include this to his 2025 plan
– Engaging our members in malaria campaign
– Tapping key networks and relationships in US and India
We have a real opportunity to partner with MNM providing strategic help and be part of the success story of the state we continue to call home. Soon, I will be sending a request inviting your skill set, time and generosity to be part of the MNM strategic effort.
Please feel free to write to me on any questions and concerns you may have.
Sincerely,
Lalatengu Mohanty