•Muthoni said they have also prioritized innovative approaches to ensure secure transportation and storage under Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA).
•PS Muthoni said the use of mosquito nets is among the effective and appropriate ways of preventing malaria.
Image: MOH
The Ministry of Health (MOH) has reported progress in the mass net campaign to combat malaria.
The campaign was first launched on November 15, in Homa Bay to achieve universal coverage and substantially reduce malaria cases across 22 targeted counties.
In a statement on Thursday, Principal Secretary of State Department of Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni said 95 per cent of beneficiaries in Homa Bay have already received their nets.
In Kisii, Muthoni said a remarkable 841,ooo nets have been received, reflecting a steadfast commitment to providing essential tools in the fight against malaria.
"Additionally, 143,000 nets are scheduled for delivery this week, showcasing our responsiveness to the diverse needs of each region," she said.
"Our efforts extend beyond net distribution to encompass comprehensive training for all health workers on mass net digitization process in Kisii and Nyamira."
PS Muthoni further said county stakeholders actively engage in the sensitisation initiatives, fostering collaboration in malaria eradication efforts.
She said their emphasis this week is placed on ongoing training for community health promoters and village elders.
Muthoni said they have also prioritised innovative approaches to ensure secure transportation and storage under the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (Kemsa).
"The introduction of DigimalKE, a digital platform, underscores our commitment to accuracy and transparency in household registration and participant payments," she said.
The PS said anticipating the arrival of Nyamira nets and completing the remaining 5 per cent distribution in Homa Bay, the move is not defined by numerical milestones.
She said it is defined by the lives positively impacted, empowered communities and resilience built against malaria.
"The Kenya malaria control program remains resolute in its mission to combat malaria, embracing innovation and fostering community partnerships towards a malaria-free future," PS Muthoni said.
MOH on November 16, launched the mass distribution of treated mosquito nets in a bid to curb the spread of malaria disease.
PS Muthoni said the use of mosquito nets is among the effective and appropriate ways of preventing malaria.
The latest Kenya malaria indicator survey report indicates that about 4 million Kenyans contract malaria disease while more than 10,000 people die of the disease annually.
The Ministry in collaboration with partners such as Global Fund, US-Aid, and World Health Organization among others began distributing 15 million mosquito nets.
Muthoni said they are focusing on preventive rather than curative.
“Many health survey reports list malaria among the leading killer diseases in the country. The most affected are expectant mothers, children of five years and below, and elderly persons,” Muthoni said.