𝐊𝐞𝐧𝐲𝐚 𝐋𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐍𝐞𝐭 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐂𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐠𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐟𝐲 𝐌𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐚 𝐄𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐄𝐟𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐬
Homabay, KENYA - 15th November 2023 - In a strategic move to bolster the battle against malaria, Kenya has officially launched the Mass Net Distribution Campaign, a significant initiative aimed at reducing malaria prevalence and improving public health nationwide.
This strategic initiative, spanning 22 high-risk malaria counties, aligns with WHO recommendations and employs a digitalized process for efficient distribution of 15.3 million Long-Lasting Insecticidal Mosquito Nets.
The launch was presided over by Ms. Mary M. Muriuki, HSC, Principal Secretary for the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards, and Homabay Governor Gladys Wanga, emphasizing the collective responsibility in malaria elimination.
Kenya has achieved commendable progress over the years, witnessing a substantial reduction in malaria prevalence from 8% in 2015 to 6% in 2020, as indicated by the Kenya Malaria Indicator Survey.
The Mass Net Distribution Campaign introduces an innovative digitalized process to enhance efficiency and accountability in net distribution. This approach aligns with the recently launched Universal Health Coverage program, emphasizing Digital Health, Human Resources for Health, Healthcare Financing, and Commodity Security.
A key component of the campaign involves deploying 100,000 Community Health Promoters (CHPs) strategically within communities. Their role is crucial in monitoring the proper utilization of distributed nets, underscoring the importance of community engagement and grassroots healthcare delivery in the fight against malaria.
The government's adoption of a digitalized process ensures streamlined efficiency in the distribution of nets, contributing to a comprehensive and impactful strategy.
Communities are urged not to rely solely on healthcare providers but to actively engage in the initiative. Beyond malaria, the campaign addresses broader health aspects, particularly in the context of heavy rains. It seeks to tackle issues related to food and nutrition, water and sanitation, and other vector-borne diseases.
The launch of the Mass Net Distribution Campaign is not merely a distribution event; it signifies the beginning of a new era in healthcare for the nation.
Ms. Muriuki highlighted that malaria is preventable, urging consistent use of Insecticidal-Treated Mosquito Nets every night to protect those at risk. This campaign symbolizes a united effort to create a healthier and malaria-free future for Kenya, reinforcing the nation's commitment to public health and the realization of Universal Health Coverage.