Caravan of Life

Caravan of Life was designed to mobilise resources to assist in the delivery of malaria interventions. The project consisted of a convoy of vehicles which transported medicine, mosquito nets, insecticides, computers, and communication equipment and vehicles for the purpose of enabling workers in malaria-affected areas to fight the disease.

The purpose of a travelling programme was to reach out to people living in remote communities who might not otherwise have access to life-saving information about malaria prevention. Specifically, Caravan of Life took off from Luanda and travelled through Sumbe, Bie, Bengeula and Huambo Provinces. The total number of participants in the Caravan of Life convoy was approximately 100; organisers claim that the caravan drew large crowds in the areas it passed through.

Traditional groups performed role-plays and drama for different community groups in each of the provinces. Advocacy materials for different health conditions were developed and distributed to different groups being addressed by the initiative. Various community mobilisation activities were conducted during the ceremonies and receptions in towns and cities along the way, at which medicines were handed over and equipment delivered. Other materials like umbrellas, boots and raincoats were provided to individuals and family members.

Health.

”In Angola, malaria is the major public health problem and the primary cause of morbidity and mortality. Malaria is endemic, ranging from hyper-endemic in the north and along the coastal-low lands to meso-endemic and hypo-endemic in the central high lands and the south. Annually 1.4-2 million clinical cases and about 11,000 malaria deaths are reported. Malaria accounts for 35% of overall mortality in children and 25% of overall maternal mortality and is the cause of 60% of hospital admission of children under five years and 10% of pregnant women.”