President and First Lady Commemorate Malaria Awareness Day

President George W. Bush pauses after signing a presidential proclamation Friday, April 25, 2008, in the Oval Office, in honor of Malaria Awareness Day. The proclamation highlights his Administration's commitment to global health and continues the momentum behind the President's Malaria Initiative. In signing the proclamation, the President said, "Today, we renew our commitment to lead the world toward the urgent goal and noble mission of turning the tide against malaria in Africa and around the world." (Photo Credit: White House photo by Joyce N. Boghosian)

April 25, 2008 – Today, President and Mrs. Bush commemorated the second annual Malaria Awareness Day, and renewed America's commitment to lead the world in turning the tide against malaria in Africa and around the world.  Yesterday, Mrs. Bush joined Members of Congress to announce the formation of the Congressional Malaria Caucus to combat this preventable disease.  Today, President Bush signed a Presidential Proclamation in honor of Malaria Awareness Day.  He then traveled to Hartford, Connecticut to visit the Northwest Boys & Girls Club, and present the Dragonfly Awards.  First presented by Mrs. Bush during the 2006 White House Summit on Malaria, the Dragonfly Awards recognize the efforts of young people who have completed substantial projects focused on the prevention or treatment of malaria.  The President’s Malaria Initiative is now saving lives in 15 African nations.

For more information:

• Fact Sheet: 2008 Malaria Awareness Day (White House)
• President’s proclamation and the Dragonfly Awards (White House)
• President’s Malaria Initiative (fightingmalaria.gov)

Last revised: April 25, 2008