KATAKWI — Katakwi District has officially launched the distribution of 146,250 long-lasting insecticide-treated mosquito nets (LLINs), targeting more than 254,550 residents across 20 sub-counties and town councils.
The initiative is part of the Government of Uganda’s fifth Universal Coverage Campaign aimed at reducing malaria-related illness and deaths by achieving over 80 percent coverage, in line with the national malaria strategic plan for 2025–2030
The nationwide campaign, led by the Ministry of Health, is distributing a total of 25.8 million mosquito nets across 130 districts, excluding areas already covered under the Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) program.
The exercise is being conducted in phases, with the current second wave covering 32 districts, including Katakwi, Kumi, Soroti, Serere, and Amuria, among others. In this phase alone, over 4.8 million mosquito nets are expected to be distributed to benefit more than 8.3 million people.
Speaking during the launch, Assistant District Health Officer Christine Atim emphasized the importance of proper and consistent use of mosquito nets in preventing malaria.
“Malaria remains a major threat in our district. Out of every 10 people tested, about six are positive. Sleeping under a treated net every night is one of the most effective ways to prevent infection,” she said.
She advised residents to hang the nets in the shade for at least 24 hours before use to allow the chemicals to stabilize and reduce possible irritation.
Atim also expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Health and partners such as the Global Fund for supporting the campaign, noting that the insecticide-treated nets play a key role in blocking mosquito transmission.
Meanwhile, Katakwi Assistant Resident District Commissioner Lawrance Ongobe urged residents to avoid misuse of the mosquito nets, warning against using them for activities such as fishing, fencing, or gardening.
“These nets are meant to save lives. Misusing them defeats the purpose of this important government intervention,” Ongobe said.
Some beneficiaries have welcomed the initiative, including Joseph Okipi, a resident of Dokomer Cell, who received four mosquito nets for his family of 11 members. He said the nets will help reduce malaria cases, especially among young children.
However, concerns have been raised over the distribution process, with some households reportedly missing out due to inconsistencies in data collection. Community members have called on the Ministry of Health to improve beneficiary data to ensure fair and inclusive distribution in future exercises.
Despite the challenges, district leaders remain optimistic that the campaign will significantly reduce malaria cases and improve public health outcomes across Katakwi.
