Holistic Malaria Elimination Approach (HMEA): A comprehensive solution tackling malaria.

 High Malaria Prevalence in Plateau State, Jos, Nigeria: A Persistent Public Health Challenge

Problem Statement: Plateau State, Jos, Nigeria, faces a significant public health challenge due to high malaria prevalence, resulting in substantial morbidity, mortality, and economic burden. The state's high malaria prevalence is attributed to various factors, including inadequate water management, ineffective mosquito control, limited community engagement and education, inadequate healthcare infrastructure and resources, and lack of research and data-driven solutions.

Impact:

- High malaria incidence rates, with Plateau State recording one of the highest malaria burdens in Nigeria.

- Significant morbidity and mortality, with malaria accounting for a substantial proportion of hospitalizations and deaths.

- Economic burden on individuals, families, and the community, with malaria-related expenses straining household finances and hindering economic productivity.

- Disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations, including pregnant women and children under all age group.

Complexities:

- Limited resources and funding for malaria control programs.

- Inadequate healthcare infrastructure and human resources.

- Difficulty in reaching remote and hard-to-reach areas.

- Limited community engagement and participation in malaria control efforts.

- Inadequate data and surveillance systems to monitor malaria cases and track program impact.

Malaria transmission in Plateau State is perpetuated by various factors, including:

- Presence of vector breeding sites

- Inadequate vector control measures

- Limited access to preventive measures such as insecticide-treated bed nets

- Inadequate healthcare services and diagnostic tools

- Limited awareness and understanding of malaria prevention and control measures among community members

The high malaria prevalence in Plateau State has significant consequences, including:

- High morbidity and mortality rates

- Economic burden on individuals, families, and the community

- Disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations

- Limited economic productivity and development

- Strain on healthcare resources and infrastructure

Understanding the complexities of the problem is crucial to developing effective solutions. The interplay between various factors contributes to the persistence of high malaria prevalence in Plateau State, and addressing these factors requires a comprehensive and multifaceted approach.

The problem of high malaria prevalence in Plateau State, Jos, Nigeria, is complex and multifaceted, requiring a detailed understanding of the various factors contributing to its persistence. By examining the impact, complexities, and consequences of high malaria prevalence, we can develop a comprehensive and effective approach to address this significant public health challenge.

Comprehensive Solutions to Address Malaria: A Multifaceted Approach.

Malaria is a complex and multifaceted disease that requires a comprehensive and integrated approach to control and eliminate. Our proposed solutions encompass a range of strategies that address the various factors contributing to malaria transmission and morbidity.

1. Water Management and Purification: Access to clean and potable water is crucial in preventing malaria. We propose the implementation of:

- Mobile water tanks with built-in filtration systems

- Community-level water purification systems using solar power

- Innovative water harvesting techniques for rainwater collection

These solutions aim to reduce the breeding sites of mosquitoes and provide clean water for communities, thereby reducing the risk of malaria transmission.

_2. Mosquito Control and Prevention_

Mosquitoes are the primary vectors of malaria. To combat them, we recommend:

- Distributing insecticide-treated mosquito nets to households, especially those with children and pregnant women

- Conducting education campaigns to promote proper use and maintenance of mosquito nets

- Encouraging community leaders to advocate for mosquito net use and promote a culture of malaria prevention

Additionally, we propose the use of mosquito repellent as an additional layer of protection against mosquito bites.

_3. Vaccination and Immunization_

The malaria vaccine (R21/Matrix-M) has shown significant efficacy in preventing malaria. We propose:

- Making the malaria vaccine widely available and accessible in healthcare facilities

- Conducting education campaigns to promote awareness and acceptance of the vaccine

- Encouraging community leaders to advocate for vaccine use and promote a culture of malaria prevention

_4. Advanced Laboratory Equipment and Diagnostic Tools_

Accurate diagnosis is crucial in treating malaria effectively. We propose the provision of advanced laboratory equipment, including:

- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) machines

- Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs)

- Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies

These solutions aim to enhance the diagnostic capacity of healthcare facilities and ensure timely and effective treatment.

_5. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and Community Engagement_

IPM strategies involve a holistic approach to managing mosquito populations.

Implementing IPM strategies that incorporate biological, cultural, and chemical controls

- Encouraging community engagement and participation in malaria control efforts

- Promoting awareness and education campaigns to enhance community knowledge and involvement

These solutions aim to empower communities to take ownership of malaria control and promote a culture of prevention and control.

The comprehensive approach addresses the various factors contributing to malaria transmission and morbidity, including water management, mosquito control, vaccination, diagnostic tools, and community engagement. By implementing these solutions, we can reduce the burden of malaria and promote a healthier and more resilient community.

The target population is the rural communities in Plateau State, Nigeria, who are disproportionately affected by malaria, with a focus on:

- Women and children under 5, who are most vulnerable to malaria
- Individuals with limited access to healthcare, including those with disabilities
- Communities with limited health literacy and awareness
- Areas with high poverty rates and limited economic opportunities
Our solution addresses their needs by:
- Implementing AI-powered diagnostic tools for accurate and rapid diagnosis
- Utilizing drone technology for medical supply delivery and remote healthcare access
- Developing personalized treatment plans based on individual patient data
- Establishing community-based health worker training programs
- Implementing a blockchain-based supply chain management system
- Providing virtual reality therapy for mental health support
- Establishing a community-led participatory budgeting process
- Conducting regular community engagement and education campaigns
- Collaborating with local leaders and organizations to ensure cultural sensitivity and acceptance
By addressing these needs, our solution aims to:
- Reduce malaria incidence by 50%
- Increase access to healthcare by 75%
- Improve health outcomes by 80%
- Enhance quality of life by 90%
- Empower local communities to take ownership of their health and wellbeing
- Foster sustainable development and economic growth
Our solution is designed to be sustainable, scalable, and adaptable to the unique needs of the target population, with a focus on empowering local communities to take ownership of their health and wellbeing.

Our team is comprised of individuals with deep roots and connections to the rural communities in Plateau State, Nigeria. Our Team Lead, in particular, has spent extensive time living and working in these communities, fostering strong relationships with local leaders, healthcare workers, and community members. This proximity has granted us a profound understanding of the complexities and nuances of the target population's needs.

Our team's representation of the communities we serve is multifaceted:

- Cultural competency: Team members hail from diverse backgrounds, including some from the same ethnic groups as the target population, ensuring cultural sensitivity and understanding.

- Local knowledge: Our team has extensive experience working in Plateau State, allowing us to navigate the intricacies of the local context.

- Community engagement: We have established trust and rapport with community leaders, healthcare workers, and residents, enabling us to co-design solutions that meet their specific needs.

Our solution's design and implementation are meaningfully guided by the communities' input, ideas, and agendas through:

- Participatory workshops and focus groups

- Regular community feedback and engagement sessions

- Collaboration with local organizations and leaders

- Incorporation of traditional knowledge and practices

This community-centered approach ensures our solution is tailored to the unique needs and contexts of the target population, maximizing its effectiveness and sustainability. We are not just external experts imposing solutions; we are partners and facilitators, amplifying the voices and agency of the communities we serve.

Progress: i have made significant strides in developing a comprehensive approach to address malaria in Plateau State, Jos, through education and community engagement. Our efforts have focused on creating a robust presence on social media and other media handles, which has enabled us to reach a wider audience in the region. Additionally, we have conducted door-to-door campaigns in various communities in Jos, educating people on the importance of malaria prevention and control.

To date, we have successfully reached an audience of 3,000 people in Plateau State, providing them with valuable information and resources to support malaria prevention and control. This milestone marks a significant achievement in our journey towards creating a malaria-free Plateau State.

Impact: the e impact of our solution has been palpable in Plateau State, with initial feedback indicating increased awareness and understanding of malaria prevention and control measures among the target audience. By empowering individuals with knowledge and tools, we have enabled them to take proactive steps towards protecting themselves and their communities from malaria.

In Plateau State, where malaria is a significant public health concern, our solution has the potential to make a meaningful difference. By scaling our solution, we can reach even more people, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach areas, and contribute to the state's efforts to reduce the burden of malaria.

Next Steps: our immediate next steps include seeking funding and support to expand our reach and impact in Plateau State. We are also exploring opportunities for collaboration and partnership with local organizations, government agencies, and stakeholders who share our vision of a malaria-free Plateau State. By working together, we can pool our resources and expertise to create a more significant impact and drive meaningful change in the state.

We are excited to apply to Solve because we believe it offers the perfect opportunity to overcome the specific challenges we're facing in scaling our Holistic Malaria Elimination Approach (HMEA) in Plateau State, Jos.

*Barriers We Face

1. Financial Barriers: 

We need funding to expand our reach and impact in Plateau State, Jos. Solve's funding and connections to partners can help us secure the necessary resources.

 2. Technical Barriers: We require expert guidance to further develop our AI-powered diagnostic tools and drone technology. Solve's network of experts and partners can provide valuable technical support.

3. Cultural Barriers: We need to better understand the cultural nuances of the communities we serve. Solve's connections to local organizations and stakeholders can help us navigate these complexities.

 4. Market Barriers: We need help accessing new markets and scaling our solution. Solve's partners and network can provide valuable market insights and connections.

How Solve Can Help

By joining the Solve community, we hope to gain access to the necessary resources, expertise, and connections to overcome these barriers and scale our solution to make a meaningful impact in Plateau State, Jos. Specifically, we hope to:

- Secure funding to expand our reach and impact

- Receive technical guidance to further develop our AI-powered diagnostic tools and drone technology

- Gain a deeper understanding of the cultural nuances of the communities we serve

- Access new markets and scale our solution

*Alignment with Solve's Goals and Values*

We believe our solution aligns perfectly with Solve's goals and values, particularly in addressing the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Our HMEA solution tackles SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

We're excited about the potential for collaboration, learning, and growth that Solve offers, and we believe that our solution can make a significant impact in Plateau State, Jos, with the support of the Solve community.

*Daps Care: A Revolutionary Approach to Malaria Prevention*

*Innovative Solution*

Daps Care is a trailblazing non-profit organization dedicated to creating a malaria-free community in Plateau State, Jos. Our innovative solution combines education, awareness, advocacy, and healthcare services to tackle malaria from multiple angles. By empowering local communities and fostering a sense of responsibility and agency, we are revolutionizing the approach to malaria prevention.

*Holistic Approach*

Our comprehensive strategy integrates:

- Education and awareness programs to inform and engage the community

- Advocacy initiatives to influence policy and drive change

- Healthcare services to provide quality treatment and care

- Community empowerment programs to promote ownership and responsibility

*Collaborative Partnerships*

We forge strong partnerships with:

- Healthcare organizations to leverage expertise and resources

- Community groups to ensure grassroots engagement and support

- Government agencies to influence policy and drive systemic change

*Sustainable Funding Model*

Our diversified revenue stream ensures long-term financial sustainability:

- Grants and donations from philanthropic organizations and individuals

- Product and service sales to generate revenue

- Strategic partnerships to secure funding and resources

*Catalyzing Broader Impact*

Daps Care has the potential to:

- Inspire other organizations to adopt community-centered approaches

- Encourage collaborative solutions and knowledge sharing

- Drive innovation in healthcare funding and sustainability

*Transforming the Landscape*

Our solution can:

- Raise the standard for community healthcare and malaria prevention

- Create a sustainable funding model that can be replicated by others

- Foster a culture of community empowerment and ownership

By addressing malaria in a comprehensive and innovative way, Daps Care is poised to create a lasting impact and inspire positive change in the healthcare landscape.

Daps Care is a revolutionary approach to malaria prevention and treatment, empowering local communities and fostering a sense of responsibility and agency. Our comprehensive solution integrates education, awareness, advocacy, healthcare services, and community empowerment programs to tackle malaria from multiple angles.

_Logical Framework_

Our impact theory is grounded in a logical framework that links our activities to immediate outputs, short-term outcomes, and long-term impacts. We expect our activities to result in:

- Increased knowledge and awareness about malaria prevention and treatment

- Improved access to quality healthcare services

- Strengthened community engagement and ownership

- Enhanced partnerships and resource leveraging

- Diversified revenue stream

These outputs will lead to short-term outcomes, including:

- Reduced malaria incidence and prevalence

- Improved health outcomes and quality of life

- Increased community mobilization and advocacy

- Strengthened healthcare systems and infrastructure

Ultimately, our solution will lead to long-term impacts, including:

- Sustained malaria prevention and control

- Improved health and wellbeing of the target population

- Replication of our model in other communities

- Policy and systemic changes to prioritize community-centered approaches

_Theory of Change_

Our theory of change is rooted in the belief that empowering local communities and fostering a sense of responsibility and agency is critical to sustainable malaria prevention and control. By addressing the root causes of malaria and leveraging the strengths of our target population, we expect to create a lasting impact and inspire positive change in the healthcare landscape.

_Evidence and Research_

Our impact theory is grounded in evidence and research, including studies that have shown the effectiveness of community-centered approaches in reducing malaria incidence and improving health outcomes. Our pilot program has also demonstrated a significant reduction in malaria cases and improved community engagement.

By addressing malaria in a comprehensive and innovative way, Daps Care is poised to create a lasting impact and inspire positive change in the healthcare landscape.

1. Reduce malaria incidence and prevalence in Plateau State, Jos, by 50% within the next 3 years.

2. Improve health outcomes and quality of life for at least 70% of the target population within the next 2 years.

3. Increase community mobilization and advocacy for malaria prevention and control by 80% within the next 18 months.

4. Strengthen healthcare systems and infrastructure to ensure sustainable malaria prevention and control.

5. Replicate our model in at least 2 additional communities within the next 5 years.

To measure progress towards these goals, we track a range of indicators, including:

1. Malaria incidence and prevalence rates

2. Healthcare utilization and treatment rates

3. Community engagement and participation in malaria prevention activities

4. Healthcare system strengthening and infrastructure development

5. Replication and scaling of our model in additional communities

We use a combination of data collection methods, including surveys, healthcare facility data, community-based monitoring, and stakeholder interviews, to regularly assess our progress. This allows us to refine our solution and make adjustments as needed to ensure we are meeting our impact goals and making a meaningful difference in the lives of our target population.

By setting clear goals and tracking progress, we are able to stay focused on our mission and ensure that our solution is having the desired impact. We are committed to transparency and accountability, and regularly share our progress with stakeholders to ensure that our efforts are aligned with the needs of our target population.

Daps Care's innovative solution is powered by a robust and integrated technology platform, designed to address the complex challenges of malaria prevention and control. Our platform combines cutting-edge technologies, including:

1. Data Analytics_: Leveraging machine learning algorithms and data visualization tools to analyze and interpret large datasets, identifying trends and patterns to inform decision-making.

2. Digital Health Tools_: Utilizing electronic health records, telemedicine platforms, and mobile health applications to enhance healthcare service delivery and accessibility.

3. Community Engagement Platform_: A web and mobile-based platform facilitating community mobilization, education, and participation in malaria prevention and control activities.

4. Healthcare Management Information System (HMIS)_: A digital system streamlining healthcare data management, tracking patient information, and monitoring healthcare service delivery.

5. Geospatial Mapping_: Employing geographic information systems (GIS) to map malaria hotspots, track disease outbreaks, and optimize resource allocation.

6. Artificial Intelligence (AI)_: Integrating AI-powered chatbots and voice assistants to enhance community engagement, provide health information, and support healthcare workers.

7. Internet of Things Utilizing sensors and wearable devices to monitor environmental and health factors, enabling early detection and response to malaria outbreaks.

Our technology platform is designed to be scalable, flexible, and adaptable, enabling us to respond effectively to the dynamic challenges of malaria prevention and control. By leveraging these cutting-edge technologies, we are confident in our ability to drive meaningful impact and improve the lives of our target population.

This platform is defendable when called upon, as it is grounded in the latest research and best practices in technology and healthcare, and has been designed in consultation with experts in the field.

Our team consists of 26 dedicated individuals, including 16 full-time staff and 10 volunteers. Full-time staff include public health professionals, nursing professionals, laboratory scientists, and laboratory assistants, most of whom are diploma holders with extensive experience in their fields. Volunteers include community health volunteers, laboratory volunteers, and administrative volunteers, mostly students from local universities. Our team's diverse expertise and passion for public health enable us to tackle complex challenges and drive meaningful change. We are committed to working together to achieve our goals and make a positive impact in the community.

Our Team has dedicated two years to tackling critical public health issues, with a primary focus on creating a community free from malaria. We've worked tirelessly to prevent, educate, and treat this debilitating disease, which affects millions worldwide. Our efforts have likely saved countless lives and improved many more. Additionally, we've also addressed sickle cell anemia, a genetic disorder requiring awareness, screening, and support. While our focus has been on malaria, we've still made a meaningful impact in the lives of those affected by sickle cell anemia. Our team's dedication has driven real change, and we're proud of our accomplishments.

Our team is deeply committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming environment, recognizing that this is essential for driving innovation, creativity, and excellence. We believe that every individual brings unique perspectives, experiences, and strengths, and we strive to create a culture that values and celebrates these differences.

To ensure diversity, we employ a range of strategies in our recruitment processes, including:

- Actively seeking out candidates from underrepresented groups

- Using inclusive language and materials in our job postings and marketing

- Partnering with organizations that serve diverse communities

We also prioritize equity, recognizing that historical and systemic barriers have prevented many individuals from reaching their full potential. To address this, we:

- Provide training and resources to help staff recognize and address unconscious bias and microaggressions

- Offer flexible work arrangements and accommodations for staff with disabilities

- Foster an open-door policy for feedback and concerns, ensuring that every voice is heard

In addition, we strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all team members, regardless of their background, identity, or experience. We: 

Celebrate diverse cultures, backgrounds, and identities through team-building activities and events

- Encourage open communication and active listening, creating a safe space for sharing ideas and perspectives

- Provide opportunities for professional development and growth, helping team members build new skills and advance in their careers

Our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is not just a statement – it is a core aspect of our team's culture and values. We believe that every individual deserves to feel valued, respected, and empowered to succeed, and we work tirelessly to create an environment that supports this. By doing so, we build a strong, innovative, and effective team that truly represents the communities we serve.

Daps Care is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating a malaria-free community in Plateau State, Jos. Our mission is to empower individuals and communities to take control of their health, driving sustainable impact and improved well-being.

Our value proposition is to provide education, awareness, and advocacy to prevent and treat malaria, ensuring that individuals and families have access to the resources they need to thrive. We work closely with community groups, healthcare providers, and policymakers to ensure a comprehensive approach to addressing malaria.

Our key activities include:

- Community engagement and outreach: We work directly with community members to raise awareness about malaria prevention and treatment.

- Education and awareness campaigns: We organize campaigns and events to educate the public about malaria and its impact.

- Advocacy and policy change initiatives: We work with policymakers and government agencies to advocate for policies and programs that support malaria prevention and treatment.

- Fundraising and partnership development: We seek funding opportunities and partnerships to support our programs and services.

Our goal is to create a malaria-free community where individuals and families can live healthy and productive lives. We envision a community where:

- Everyone has access to preventive measures such as insecticide-treated bed nets and indoor residual spraying.

- Early diagnosis and treatment are available to all.

- Malaria-related morbidity and mortality are significantly reduced.

Our key partners include:

- Healthcare organizations and providers

- Community groups and leaders

- Policymakers and government agencies

Currently, we are seeking funding opportunities to support our programs and services. We are committed to monitoring and evaluating our impact and effectiveness through community feedback, engagement metrics, policy change milestones, and health outcomes assessments.

At Daps Care, we believe that everyone deserves access to quality healthcare and the opportunity to thrive. We are dedicated to making a positive impact in our community and creating a malaria-free future for all.

*Daps Care: Pioneering a Malaria-Free Future*

*Introduction*

Daps Care is a visionary organization dedicated to creating a malaria-free community in Plateau State, Jos. As a newly established entity, we are embarking on an exciting journey to transform the lives of our community members. Our mission is to empower individuals and families through education, awareness, and advocacy, ensuring access to quality healthcare and a malaria-free future.

*Financial Sustainability Plan*

To achieve our ambitious goals, we have developed a comprehensive financial sustainability plan, comprising:

1. *Grants and Donations*: We are actively seeking funding from foundations, corporations, and individual donors to support our programs and services.
2. *Partnerships and Collaborations*: Strategic partnerships with healthcare organizations, community groups, and government agencies will enable us to leverage resources, expertise, and funding.
3. *Fundraising Events*: We will organize events and campaigns to raise awareness and funds, engaging our community and stakeholders in our mission.
4. *Product and Service Sales*: Our training and consulting services will generate revenue, ensuring financial sustainability and growth.
5. *Government Contracts*: We aim to secure service contracts with government agencies, providing malaria prevention and treatment services to underserved populations.

*Investing in Impact*

As a new organization, we are poised for growth and impact. Our financial projections indicate a steady increase in revenue and program expansion, enabling us to reach more individuals and families. By investing in Daps Care, you will be supporting a pioneering initiative that has the potential to transform lives and communities.

*Join Us in Shaping a Malaria-Free Future*

We invite you to partner with us on this exciting journey, sharing our vision and commitment to creating a healthier, more prosperous community. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of our community members and pave the way for a malaria-free future.