Nearly 60 participants, including local leaders, sector heads, business representatives, and regional stakeholders from six gewogs under Dagana Dzongkhag, came together for a high-level malaria advocacy program with a shared commitment and vision: to protect their communities from malaria and advancing Bhutan’s journey toward elimination.

This program marked the third stop of the Director of Public Health’s southern advocacy tour. The choice of venue ~ a simple community hall deep in Tshamzhigosa Chiwog, Lhamoizingkha Dungkhag ~ was symbolic. It reminded everyone present that the fight against malaria is not fought in urban offices but in the villages and border areas where the risks are highest. This advocacy stop was not just about policies or data ~ it was about recognizing and rallying the people and communities whose perseverance makes elimination possible.

In the afternoon, the Director visited Lhamoizingkha hospital, where he interacted with the staff and toured the hospital to better understand the challenges they face in delivering healthcare in such a remote setting. He listened to their experiences with empathy, recognizing the long hours, limited resources, and personal sacrifices that come with serving in a remote and high-risk area. His words of appreciation and encouragement carried a powerful message ~ that their dedication is not unseen, and their tireless efforts remain at the heart of Bhutan’s fight for healthier communities.