Homa Bay: The Ministry of Health in Kenya has embarked on a nationwide campaign to distribute over 15 million mosquito nets, aiming to combat the spread of malaria. This initiative, announced by Mary Muthoni, the Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards, is particularly timely given the ongoing El Nino rains, which create ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Kenya malaria indicator survey report reveals that approximately 4 million Kenyans contract malaria each year, with the disease claiming over 10,000 lives annually. The Ministry is collaborating with international partners such as the Global Fund, US-Aid, and the World Health Organisation to support this extensive distribution effort.
The government has identified at least 22 counties that are particularly vulnerable to malaria outbreaks, with additional focus on flood-affected counties in the North Eastern region. Emphasizing preventive measures, Muthoni highlighted the vulnerability of expectant mothers, young children, and the elderly to malaria.
During the launch event at Ndiru playground in Rangwe constituency, Homa Bay County, beneficiaries were advised to use the nets responsibly. The distribution process is facilitated by over 100,000 community health promoters and is monitored through a digitized system to prevent corruption. Recipients are required to present their identity cards for record-keeping before receiving the nets.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, US-Aid Mission Director David Gosney, representatives from the Global Fund and the World Health Organisation, and Kenya’s Health Director General Patrick Amoth were present at the launch. Muthoni stated that mosquito nets are a cost-effective method of controlling malaria spread and mentioned other interventions like Indoor Residual Spray (IRS), vaccination, and anti-malarial drugs.
With the ongoing El Nino rains, Muthoni urged Kenyans to maintain vigilance against diseases such as cholera, dysentery, and bilharzia, in addition to malaria. She called for proper drainage, waste disposal, personal hygiene, and clearing of bushes to reduce mosquito breeding.
Homa Bay, with a 3.6 percent malaria prevalence, received 841,000 treated mosquito nets. Governor Wanga emphasized the severe impact of malaria on the county’s morbidity and mortality rates, particularly among children.
Gosney highlighted the significant progress made in reducing malaria spread through the 16-year partnership between Kenya and US-Aid. A Sh2.5 billion program is currently addressing malaria in Lake Region counties, with an investment in new technology and research. US-Aid committed to supporting the distribution of 4 million bed nets as part of this effort.
Finally, Amoth encouraged Kenyans to ensure children are vaccinated against diseases like malaria, polio, measles, and chickenpox. He also stressed the importance of skilled birth practices, noting the high mortality rate of 61 deaths per 1000 live births due to malaria.