Anthony Kushaba
Ntungamo
Authorities in Ntungamo have issued a stern warning to residents, urging them to refrain from misusing mosquito nets provided by the government to combat the spread of malaria.
The call to action was made by Deputy Resident District Commissioner Robert Niwamanya Kamuntu during a gathering convened to receive a shipment of 304,640 mosquito nets procured by the government.
Kamuntu expressed concern that despite the government’s efforts to combat malaria, some individuals were using these vital resources for purposes other than their intended one, such as using them to rear chickens instead of sleeping under them for protection against mosquitoes.
Kamuntu urged the local population to fully embrace the forthcoming mosquito net distribution initiative, scheduled to commence in villages on Monday. He emphasized the importance of this distribution drive in ensuring its success.
In addition to Kamuntu’s remarks, Kiiza Fedelis, the Principal Assistant Secretary, expressed gratitude that the distribution, which had experienced delays, was finally set to begin. Fedelis called upon sub-county chiefs and parish chiefs to collaborate closely with village health teams to facilitate the smooth execution of the distribution effort.
The event also witnessed the presence of notable figures such as Esau Nsimire, the Ntungamo District Internal Security Officer, and Beatrice Chemisto, the Acting District Health Officer.
The government’s distribution campaign involves dispersing 28.5 million Long Lasting Insecticide Treated Mosquito Nets (LLINs) nationwide, part of the broader initiative to reduce malaria morbidity and mortality rates. This campaign receives support from The Global Fund and Against Malaria Foundation and is centered on promoting behavior change to encourage consistent net usage, timely repairs, and addressing social norms that hinder proper net utilization.
