Iganga, Uganda: Former Vice President Specioza Wandira Kazibwe has confirmed a significant reduction in malaria cases in Nawaningi Sub-county following a targeted intervention combining testing, treatment, and indoor residual spraying.
The initiative, implemented by the Busoga Health Forum (BHF), has been credited with reversing what was previously described as a severe malaria burden in the area.
Speaking during an evaluation meeting with LC1 chairpersons and village leaders in Nawaningi, Dr. Kazibwe said the sub-county had previously recorded alarming infection levels, with malaria accounting for up to 80% of cases at Health Centre II and III facilities.
“We want to credit you for the support. This work of eliminating malaria in Nawaningi has been possible because of you. The new cases reported are from outside Nawaningi,” she said.
She noted that at the peak of the crisis, communities were recording frequent deaths attributed to malaria, describing the situation as “very bad.”
Dr. Kazibwe attributed the progress to strong community involvement, particularly local council leaders, youth and women representatives, and religious leaders. “These leaders accepted that malaria was a serious problem and committed to working with us to eliminate it,” she said.
BHF Chief Executive Officer Moses Kyangwa said the evaluation compared past and current health records, confirming a sharp decline in infections.
“The report from the doctor showed malaria has reduced. Out of every 10 people tested, only one is diagnosed with malaria, meaning our intervention worked,” Kyangwa said.
He added that mosquito presence has significantly declined, with those sighted believed to be non-infectious.
Assistant District Health Officer in charge of vector control, Dr. Karim Mwebaza Muluya, said the success was driven by coordinated interventions including mass testing, prompt treatment, and spraying. “This intervention has been effective and should be rolled out to other sub-counties, Busoga and the entire country,” he said.
Muluya noted that most new malaria cases recorded in local health facilities are now originating from neighbouring Namungalwe Sub-county, where similar interventions have not yet been implemented.
Local leaders and residents commended the programme, highlighting the impact of both indoor and outdoor spraying.
Some reported that beyond malaria control, the insecticides also eliminated fleas and bed bugs, improving overall household hygiene and comfort.
The development comes ahead of World Malaria Day, with Iganga District set to host commemorations at Bulamagi Sub-county headquarters on April 24, 2026.
Kyangwa urged residents to attend and reflect on progress made in malaria control, while calling for sustained efforts to eliminate the disease.
According to global health estimates, malaria remains one of the leading causes of illness and death in Uganda, particularly among children under five, making such community-driven interventions critical in reducing the national burden.
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