BUSOGA, Uganda — A comprehensive initiative to eradicate malaria in the Busoga sub-region has been launched, bringing together local health organizations and stakeholders to tackle the disease’s alarming prevalence.
The Busoga Malaria Eradication Project, spearheaded by former Vice President Specioza Wandira Kazibwe in collaboration with the Busoga Health Forum, aims to reduce malaria transmission through mass screening, treatment, and widespread indoor residual spraying.
Malaria has long plagued the region, accounting for 33% of outpatient visits, 22% of hospitalizations, and 11% of malaria-related deaths in Uganda. The sub-region’s geography, with its swampy areas and overgrown bushes, creates an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes, further exacerbating the crisis.
Residents, such as Yolamu Kumunu, a father of nine, have felt the economic strain, spending upwards of 60,000 shillings ($16.50 USD) a month on malaria treatment.
“The money spent on malaria treatment could be better used for income-generating activities, which could improve the overall welfare of families in the region,” said Dr. Karim Muluya, assistant district health officer for Iganga.
The project will also focus on raising awareness about preventive measures and improving environmental conditions that contribute to the spread of the disease. Health experts are hopeful that the initiative will alleviate the financial burden on families and ultimately reduce malaria cases.
Kazibwe’s initiative prioritizes educating communities on malaria prevention and treatment, providing free mosquito nets to vulnerable families, and training 250 village health brigade teams to track malaria cases and report any outbreaks.
With the right interventions, Kazibwe believes the region could eventually see malaria eradicated, bringing much-needed relief to the people of Busoga.
