The Buganda Kingdom, in partnership with the Ministry of Health, has launched a large-scale campaign to distribute more than 4.7 million insecticide-treated mosquito nets across Buganda as part of efforts to prevent and reduce malaria infections.
Speaking at the launch held at Bulange, the Second Deputy Katikkiro and Kingdom Treasurer, Robert Waggwa Nsibirwa, urged the public to embrace preventive measures against malaria.
"People should drain stagnant water where mosquitoes breed, clear bushes around their homes where mosquitoes hide, listen to qualified health workers instead of self-proclaimed medical experts on social media, and avoid self-medication by seeking treatment from trained professionals," Nsibirwa said.
He also appealed to beneficiaries to use the mosquito nets for their intended purpose.
"Those who receive these mosquito nets should sleep under them every night. They should not be used for fishing, as clothing, or as window screens. They are meant to protect people's health," he added.
Nsibirwa further called upon Buganda Kingdom leaders to mobilize communities to collect and properly use the mosquito nets, while urging parents to take their children for malaria vaccination in designated areas where the programme is available.
Ministry of Health Commissioner Dr. Richard Kabanda asked the Kingdom to continue supporting government efforts to promote public health and prevent diseases through community sensitization.
"This is the fourth round of the mosquito net distribution campaign. We urge the public to follow the guidance provided by health professionals and use the nets correctly, as many people still neglect important health practices," Dr. Kabanda said.
On behalf of the Kingdom, the Minister for Social Development and Health, Choltilda Nakate Kikomeko, reaffirmed Buganda's commitment to improving healthcare services for its people.
"We remain committed to ensuring quality healthcare for the people of Buganda. Good health is the foundation of productivity, and prevention is always better than cure," Kikomeko said.
According to figures shared during the launch, 16 people die from malaria every day in Uganda, while the country ranks third globally among nations with the highest malaria burden. Officials noted that malaria-related deaths leave devastating effects on families and negatively affect household livelihoods.
