Residents of Wakiso gathered around Wampewo and Magele to collect mosquito nets that were being distributed by the Ministry of Health. According to the Health Ministry officials, more than 1.5 million mosquito nets will be distributed among 3 million people who registered to receive them. However, some people complained of receiving fewer nets than the number of people registered in their households. The Ministry of Health officials said these complaints arose from not understanding the distribution criteria. “I don’t understand why they have given me two yet I registered four children.” “I have received seven mosquito nets despite having 12 people at home.” “If you register 6, you get 3 nets; that is correct. Because the idea is 2 people 1 net.” Said, Dr. Jimmy Opigo – Manager, National Malaria Programme.

Most of the residents are optimistic that the nets will help in the fight against this malaria. “We thank the government of Uganda for what they have done at least the rate of malaria is going to reduce.” “When I used these mosquito nets that is a prevention of malaria. So am sure we shall not get any other malaria case.” The Ministry of Health officials said the prevalence of malaria in Wakiso stands at 5% but they hoped that the distribution of nets will lower this rate.

They have however warned the people against using the mosquito nets for purposes they were not intended for. “The leaders and LCs are going to watch closely, if you are caught miss using it, some action will be taken.” According to the officials, the prevalence rate of malaria in the country stands at 19% with Busoga and Karamoja regions being the highly most affected. Meanwhile, Kampala is taking the lead in zero tolerance for malaria with the prevalence rate of less than 1%.