By Chembe Mbale
The Ministry of Health has announced plans to distribute 11.1 million insecticide-treated nets next year, targeting 2.3 million citizens as part of ongoing efforts to eliminate malaria in Zambia.
Director of Public Health, Dr. Matilda Simpungwe, said the exercise will complement routine distribution of nets to expectant mothers and children under five at local clinics.
Dr. Simpungwe also revealed that this year, the ministry intends to conduct indoor residue spraying on 793,462 eligible structures, protecting an estimated 3.4 million people against mosquitoes.
She made the remarks during the commemoration of SADC Malaria Week in Mpongwe District, observed under the theme: “Leading Health Systems and Communities Key to Malaria Elimination.”
Earlier, Copperbelt Permanent Secretary Lawrence Mwanza reaffirmed President Hakainde Hichilema’s commitment to equitable access to quality healthcare, including ending malaria.
Meanwhile, Chieftainess Lesa expressed concern over reports of misuse of government-distributed insecticide-treated nets, urging communities to use them responsibly.
