PMI VectorLink Malaria Fighter: Joséphine Tossa

Tossa's personal experience with malaria as a child in the Mono District of southern Benin instilled in her a passion for malaria prevention. Following her academic studies, Tossa worked in various organizations focused on community development, where she recognized the significant impact of malaria on underprivileged areas. Tossa's career in malaria prevention has spanned multiple roles, including Finance & Administrative Manager and Gender Focal Point for VectorLink Benin. In these positions, she has played a crucial role in implementing malaria interventions, such as indoor residual spraying (IRS) and insecticide-treated nets (ITNs). These efforts have led to a decrease in severe malaria cases, allowing health services to focus on other diseases. The PMI VectorLink project has contributed to a significant reduction in malaria morbidity and mortality in Benin. Tossa attributes this success to increased awareness of malaria risk factors, improved use of ITNs, and acceptance of IRS. As a result, Benin can expect a substantial decrease in malaria-related illnesses by the end of the decade. As Finance & Administrative Manager, Tossa oversees the financial and administrative aspects of the project, ensuring that thousands of seasonal workers are managed efficiently. She has also implemented cost-saving initiatives to mitigate the rising costs of insecticides. By categorizing expenses and targeting cost reduction efforts, Tossa has maintained the project's efficiency while reducing costs. In her role as Gender Focal Point, Tossa has advocated for increased female participation in malaria prevention activities. She has worked to remove cultural and social barriers, ensuring that women have access to sanitary pads and other essential resources during spray campaigns. As a result, female participation in IRS campaigns has nearly doubled, from 10% in 2008 to around 20%. The PMI VectorLink project has had a positive impact on rural areas, reducing malaria-related illnesses and providing income opportunities for local populations. Tossa credits the project's safe working conditions and professional development opportunities as key factors in making VectorLink a great place to work. Moving forward, Tossa believes that improving the living environment, educating populations about malaria prevention, and optimizing existing interventions will be crucial in the fight against malaria in Benin.