Vector-borne diseases remain a significant public health challenge in Africa, accounting for over 17% of all infectious diseases globally. Climate change, urbanization, and inadequate vector control strategies have exacerbated the prevalence of diseases such as malaria, dengue, and schistosomiasis. To address these challenges, the Netherlands Red Cross (NLRC) and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) have launched a localization project running from July 2023 to 2026. As part of this initiative, vector control training has been identified as a critical area of capacity building for emergency responders in Kenya.
The Red Cross, the world’s largest humanitarian movement, operates in 191 countries, providing emergency aid and disaster response services. In Africa, the increasing frequency of natural disasters and public health crises necessitates stronger response mechanisms. Vector-borne diseases, which result in over 700,000 deaths annually, are particularly concerning due to their rapid spread and evolving nature in response to climate change.
Key climate-driven factors influencing vector-borne disease transmission include:
Expansion of Vector Habitats: Rising temperatures and altered rainfall patterns have allowed mosquitoes and other vectors to spread to new regions, increasing the risk of diseases like malaria and dengue.
Increased Transmission Rates: Warmer temperatures accelerate the incubation of disease-causing pathogens within vectors, leading to higher infection rates.
Impact on Vulnerable Communities: Marginalized populations with limited access to healthcare are disproportionately affected.
Challenges to Existing Control Strategies: Changes in vector behavior due to environmental shifts can reduce the effectiveness of traditional measures such as insecticide-treated nets and indoor spraying.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that Africa reports 233 million cases of malaria annually, resulting in nearly one million deaths, with over 90% of these affecting children under five. The urgency to strengthen vector control programs is clear.
Recognizing these challenges, the NLRC and IFRC have designed a comprehensive four-day vector control training program in Nairobi, Kenya. The training will target Red Cross staff, UNICEF personnel, and members of the Disaster Response Roster System (DRRS), equipping them with knowledge and skills to combat vector-borne diseases effectively.
The training will cover the following core areas:
Overview of Major Vector-Borne Diseases
- Malaria (vivax and falciparum)
- Dengue and Chikungunya
- Lymphatic Filariasis and Schistosomiasis
- African Trypanosomiasis
- Haemorrhagic Fevers (Yellow Fever, Hantavirus, etc.)
- Cholera
Vector Control Strategies
- Biological: Use of natural predators or genetically modified mosquitoes
- Chemical: Insecticide-treated nets, residual spraying, and larvicides
- Environmental: Eliminating breeding sites through proper waste management
- Mechanical: Use of physical barriers like screens and bed nets
Insecticide Resistance and Program Implementation
- Understanding WHO standards and best practices
- Safe handling and disposal of chemicals
- Environmental risk management
Practical Application and Future Learning
- Hands-on case studies
- Guidance on further reading and self-study materials
The training program, planned for April-May 2025, will be conducted under the supervision of Jan Heeger (WASH Program Advisor), Joey de Hamer (Program Manager Prevention), and IFRC representative Peter Mamburi. They will oversee logistical arrangements, including venue selection and participant accommodations. The Kenya Red Cross will support in organizing the event, ensuring smooth coordination between stakeholders.
To ensure quality delivery, the selected consultant must meet the following criteria:
- Over five years of experience in vector control, particularly in emergency settings.
- Proven expertise in training development and facilitation within the humanitarian sector.
- Relevant work experience in Africa, familiar with the region’s vector control challenges.
- Strong understanding of humanitarian principles and best practices.
- Academic background in public health, entomology, or related fields.
The NLRC has committed to an environmental charter, which aligns with sustainable practices in all collaborations. Training implementation will adhere to eco-friendly principles, including:
- Remote working arrangements where feasible to minimize travel emissions.
- Preference for locally sourced training materials to reduce carbon footprints.
- Encouraging service providers to demonstrate environmental commitments in their proposals.
Interested consultants or organizations must submit:
- Technical Proposal: Detailing their approach to training development and facilitation.
- Financial Proposal: Providing a cost breakdown of the training.
- Evidence of Previous Work: Demonstrating expertise in vector control training.
Proposals will be assessed based on technical quality, relevance of past experience, and cost-effectiveness. The winning bid will be the one offering the best value in terms of training quality and financial feasibility
The vector control training in Kenya is a crucial step in enhancing the capacity of emergency responders to combat vector-borne diseases. Through targeted education, practical skill-building, and sustainable strategies, the program aims to improve public health outcomes and strengthen Africa’s ability to mitigate disease outbreaks. By investing in local expertise, the Red Cross and its partners are ensuring that response mechanisms are effective, timely, and resilient against future health crises.
