Speedo & Alek Wek to promote world swim against Malaria

17 Mar '08

2 min read

Speedo International and Supermodel, Alek Wek, have joined forces to promote World Swim against Malaria, a global fundraising initiative which aims to get one million people, around the world, swimming on the 5 April 2008.

Globally, at least 1.5 million people die from malaria each year, some put the estimates as high as 2.7 million. 90% of the deaths are in sub-Saharan Africa and 70% of the deaths are of children under 5. That's equivalent to one child dying of malaria in Africa every 30 seconds. Put another way, 7 jumbo jets full of children disappear because of malaria every day.

Renowned photographer, Daniela Federici, has produced a powerful image of Sudanese-born Alek wearing Speedo's bold World Swim against Malaria swimsuit to encourage people to come together and swim, any distance, on the 5 April 2008.

As well as encouraging participation, Speedo has created a special range of limited edition World Swim against Malaria products. Available in adult and junior sizes the range includes bright, vibrant swim pieces and eye-catching graphic T-shirts. For every piece purchased from the range, Speedo will donate one bednet to the Against Malaria Foundation (AMF).

Growing up in Sudan, Supermodel Alex Wek has witnessed the impact of malaria first hand “Growing up in Sudan, I like so many others, contracted Malaria as a child. Having seen and experienced the devastating effects of this disease I was passionate to get behind Speedo World Swim against Malaria. We want to get 1 million people swimming worldwide by April 5th and I urge people to take part as this is such a simple, healthy way to save lives.”

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