The government of Equatorial Guinea, Noble Energy Inc. and Marathon Oil Corporation have developed and are actively engaged in a comprehensive malaria control project for Bioko Island, Equatorial Guinea. This joint effort is expected to contribute significantly to the overall health and quality of life of the people of Equatorial Guinea.

Malaria represents the greatest health risk threatening the population of Equatorial Guinea. In a study done during the summer of 2002, experts confirmed that malaria is the most important contributor to morbidity and mortality cases for children under the age of five. The beneficiary population is estimated at 250,000, of which an estimated 30% are under the age of 5. The study resulted in the development of a comprehensive malaria control program on the island, with the goal to significantly reduce or eliminate malaria transmission over a period of five years. The Government of Equatorial Guinea has agreed to commit resources, including funding and personnel, to ensure the sustainable implementation of this program.

The malaria control program will adopt a strategic plan designed around three program goals:

• Reduce the transmission of the malaria parasite through mosquito control programs and improved preventive measures at the household and the community level;
• Improve the health care delivery systems for malaria cases by establishing malaria treatment centers that will use standardized protocols, diagnosis and referrals; and
• Enhance surveillance systems and operational research to strengthen Equatorial Guinea’s capacity to conduct surveys and implement an effective reporting and monitoring system.