Government to Distribute 11.1 Million Nets in Malaria Fight

The Ministry of Health will distribute 11.1 million insecticide-treated nets next year, targeting 2.3 million citizens as part of efforts to eliminate malaria in Zambia.

Director of Public Health Dr Matilda Simpungwe said the mass distribution exercise will complement routine distribution of nets to expectant mothers and children under five at local health facilities.

Dr Simpungwe revealed that this year, the ministry plans to conduct indoor residue spraying on 793,462 eligible structures, protecting an estimated 3.4 million people against mosquitoes.

She made the remarks during the commemoration of SADC Malaria Week in Mpongwe District, observed under the theme "Leading Health Systems and Communities Key to Malaria Elimination."

Copperbelt Permanent Secretary Lawrence Mwanza reaffirmed President Hakainde Hichilema's commitment to equitable access to quality healthcare, including ending malaria in Zambia.

However, concerns have emerged over the misuse of government-distributed mosquito nets. Chieftainess Lesa expressed concern over reports that some communities are using the nets for purposes other than malaria prevention, such as fishing.

The traditional leader urged communities to use the insecticide-treated nets responsibly to ensure the malaria elimination programme achieves its intended objectives.