The Ministry of Health has officially launched the Toro Regional Mosquito Nets Distribution Campaign with the theme “Under the Net.”
During the launch event held at the North Division headquarters this afternoon, Dr. Asiimwe Solomon, the Fort Portal City Health Officer, shared valuable insights. He announced that Fort Portal City has received 73,280 mosquito nets out of the 28 million that will be distributed nationwide. These nets will be distributed at 63 different locations across the city within the next two days, starting today. Dr. Solomon emphasized that in the 2022/2023 period, malaria ranked as the second most common reason for outpatient department (OPD) visits to healthcare facilities in Fort Portal. He expressed optimism that the proper use of these mosquito nets will help alleviate this burden on the city.
Joseph Mashuhuko, the Mayor of the North Division, commended the Ministry of Health for its swift action in combatting malaria infection. He also appealed to the Ministry of Health to allocate an additional 108 million for essential unfinished work at Karambi Health Centre III’s maternity ward, including solar lighting systems, plumbing, ceiling, and paving, to enhance the delivery of healthy children.
Bettie Mujungu Pendo, the deputy mayor of Fort Portal City, raised concerns about the staffing shortages in the city’s health sector, which currently stands at 25%. She emphasized that this shortage has led to inefficiencies in health service delivery. She called upon the Ministry to support the city in acquiring ambulances to facilitate referrals and improve healthcare accessibility.
Linda Irene Mugisa, the Woman Member of Parliament for Fort Portal City, pointed out that the distribution of mosquito nets comes with an added responsibility for the community.
This includes closing homes early, eliminating stagnant water, clearing bushes, and other breeding sites to prevent mosquito breeding. She requested the Ministry of Health to consider providing Village Health Teams (VHTs) with gum boots and umbrellas, especially during the rainy season when they are at the forefront of net distribution.
Dr. Henry G. Mwebesa, the Director-General of Health Services in the Ministry of Health, highlighted the significant support received from partners, including the donation of 28 million mosquito nets.
These nets are a crucial addition to the existing interventions, such as insecticides for indoor spraying and the introduction of two pre-qualified malaria vaccines, which will further enhance malaria control efforts in Uganda.
