Lodwar – 24th September 2024 (Public Communications and Media Relations)

The County Department of Health and Sanitation is set to launch a county-wide Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs) distribution campaign as part of efforts to combat malaria.

This LLINs campaign is an initiative of the National Ministry of Health, led by the National Malaria Control Programme. It targets 22 high-burden malaria counties, including Turkana, and aims to distribute 15.3 million nets.

Speaking at a stakeholder meeting ahead of the county’s planned five-day distribution, County Malaria Coordinator David Ekai emphasized the importance of the nets in reducing malaria-related mortality and improving quality of life.

“Sleeping under a net is one of the most effective ways to prevent malaria, as they create both a physical and chemical barrier against mosquitoes,” he said.

Deputy Health Promotion Officer Nancy Birech highlighted the critical role stakeholders play in monitoring the proper use of the distributed nets, stressing the importance of raising community awareness in the fight against malaria.

The national initiative is made possible through support from the Global Fund, which has provided 10.9 million nets, and the USAID President’s Malaria Initiative, which is contributing an additional 4.1 million nets.

Stakeholders, including representatives from religious and community groups, persons living with disabilities, and national and county administrations, have been sensitized to raise awareness in their respective areas ahead of the distribution exercise.