The Africa Media and Malaria Research Network (AMMREN), Gambia chapter will be launched on Tuesday, November 13th, 2007, at the National Nutrition Agency's conference hall in  Mile 7.

The grand launching which is expected to attract key partners like the Medical Research Council (MRC), Centre for Inovation Against Malaria (CIAM), National Malaria Control Programme (NCMP) and the World Health Organisation will be graced by Charity Bingka, Executive Secretary of AMMREN Africa, based in Ghana.

Speaking to the Daily Observer, Pa Modou Faal, AMMREN Gambia National Co-ordinatior, said the AMMREN Gambia chapter will be the first to be launched among the 9 chapters. He added that the network will also serve as a forum for journalists and scientists to discuss the way forward in promoting malaria research and prevention in Africa.

According to him, The Gambia has done a lot in the crusade against malaria, which he said has resulted to the drastic reduction of malaria cases in The Gambia. He added that the network will enhance the capacity of health journalists in the area of malaria research and prevention, aimed at complementing government efforts.

Mr Faal noted that malaria being a killer disease, mostly affecting children under 5 years and pregnant women,  needs indepth research and reporting skills to ensure that the messages are disseminated effectively.