Nandi County’s ongoing battle against malaria has received a significant boost through strategic partnerships and innovative health initiatives. In an effort to curb the spread of the deadly disease, the county has received a total of 83,930 insecticide-treated mosquito nets, which are set to be distributed across the region. This initiative is part of the Smart Net Distribution Project, funded by the Global Fund and facilitated by the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA). This collaboration ensures that even the most remote households in the county are reached, providing vital protection to vulnerable populations.
Dr. David Bungei, the Director of Health Services in Nandi County, emphasized the critical role of KEMSA in ensuring that these mosquito nets reach the most at-risk communities. He lauded the distribution effort, noting that the delivery of these nets has been instrumental in protecting vulnerable groups such as pregnant women and children under five years old, who are disproportionately affected by malaria. The initiative is seen as a major step toward reducing malaria prevalence, particularly in areas that have historically faced high rates of infection.
The Kenya Malaria Indicator Survey of 2020 reported a malaria prevalence rate of 1% across Nandi County, but it highlighted higher rates in hotspots such as Aldai (3%) and Tindaret (4%). These areas are particularly vulnerable due to their proximity to the malaria-endemic Nyanza region. Malaria incidences in the county are also influenced by seasonal climate patterns, with higher rates occurring during the rainy seasons, particularly from March to July each year.
In 2022, Nandi County recorded 34,723 confirmed malaria cases, including 794 cases among expectant mothers. The situation worsened in 2023 with the number of confirmed cases rising to 42,500. However, by October 2024, the number of confirmed malaria cases had dropped to 36,427, demonstrating the positive impact of intervention efforts such as the mosquito net distribution.
Dr. Bungei attributed much of the success to the collaboration with KEMSA and the support from the Global Fund. “The support from KEMSA and the Global Fund has been critical in ensuring that every household in Nandi, particularly in high-risk sub-counties like Aldai and Tindaret, receives these life-saving nets,” he said. He stressed the importance of continued partnerships and community engagement in the fight against malaria, urging locals to use the mosquito nets properly to maximize their protective benefits.
A visit to Chemilil Dispensary in Tindaret Sub-County, one of the hardest-hit areas, revealed the urgent need for malaria control interventions. Nurse Patrick Kenei noted that about 75% of the patients treated at the facility are diagnosed with malaria-related cases. Despite this, he reported that the community had been highly receptive to the malaria prevention initiatives, with many expressing satisfaction with the distribution of mosquito nets. The use of technology in the distribution process was also praised for its transparency and accuracy.
However, Nurse Kenei also highlighted some challenges, particularly the poor network coverage in the area, which caused delays in receiving One-Time Passwords (OTPs) necessary for the distribution process. He called for continued support and the need for regular mosquito net distribution and sensitization programs to further reduce malaria cases.
As Nandi County continues its efforts to fight malaria, the collaboration with KEMSA and funding from the Global Fund remain key pillars in the county’s drive for a malaria-free future. Through sustained partnerships, innovative approaches, and a focus on community engagement, Nandi is on track to reduce malaria prevalence and create healthier, more productive communities.
With the collective efforts of health workers, local authorities, and international partners, Nandi County is poised to make significant strides in its fight against malaria, ensuring a better future for its residents.
