U.S. Ambassador Michel P. Pelletier: "Even as we all pull together to manage the corona virus pandemic, our work in other areas of Madagascar's public health system continues. Malaria remains a significant challenge and risk to the health and well-being of the Malagasy people. In the first six months of 2020, over 1 million people have been diagnosed with malaria. Today is World Mosquito Day, a day to raise awareness and to take action to prevent illnesses spread by mosquitoes, including malaria. I am honored on this occasion to announce that the United States Government is donating over 2 million malaria rapid diagnostic tests to the Ministry of Public Health, along with nearly 2 millions courses of treatment to bring healing to those who test positive for the illness. With these tests, Malagasy health workers can know within 15 minutes if a patient has malaria and take the proper steps to provide treatment. The funding for these donations comes from the U.S. Government's President's Malaria Initiative, and the supplies are distributed by USAID's IMPACT health project, which works with the Ministry of Public Health to ensure medical supplies are available when and where they are needed -- all across Madagascar. So, Minister Ahmad, it is with great pleasure that I officially hand over these supplies to you, for the health and benefit of the Malagasy people." Prof. Ahmad Ahmad, Minister of Public Heath: "His Excellency Mr. Pelletier, Ambassador of the United States of America to Madagascar, It is indeed a great honor for me, on behalf of the Malagasy people, to officially receive these anti-malarial drugs. Ladies and gentlemen, This fight against other diseases continues, even during the Covid-19 pandemic. This includes malaria, which kills many people, especially in remote, hard-to-reach areas. The United States of America, through USAID, donated 2 million rapid diagnostic tests for Madagascar to fight against malaria. This donation comes through the IMPACT project, supported by USAID. The national anti-malaria policy requires that patients are tested before receiving malaria medication. These services are tailored to the strategies and needs of the people, as the struggle against malaria affects a large number of people. On behalf of the Malagasy people, I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation to you and the American people. Your commitment and contribution to the improvement of public health are tangible. We appreciate your commitment to the Malagasy people as we strive to overcome this deadly disease. Thank you ladies and gentlemen. Thank you very much."