On the 23rd of July, 2010 the Ministry of Health and her partners launched mass distribution of Long Lasting Insecticide Nets (LLINs) in Gweta and Tsokotshaaa villages in the Tutume sub-district, one of the high malaria transmission areas. The activity was officially launched by the Minister of Health, Dr. John Seakgosing, who encouraged the public to exercise maximum co-operation with the government in the effort to eliminate malaria in Botswana by 2015. In his address, the Minister said that although malaria is a deadly killer, it can be defeated if the public co-operates and supports the government’s efforts to fight malaria.

He said that elimination of malaria by 2015 will allow the government to focus its efforts in fighting other diseases such as HIV and AIDS and Tuberculosis. Furthermore he informed the gathering that the Ministry will continue to look at all the possible measures for fighting malaria, including creating awareness, ownership of treated mosquito nets and their usage. Dr. Seakgosing informed the public that after this exercise of distributing nets in all malaria prone areas, the expectation is to see a decrease in malaria cases as an indication that people are using these nets and that the whole exercise is bearing fruits.

A total of 89 000 nets were distributed in six villages throughout the month of July 2010. These nets were donated by Rotary Club, Clinton foundation through Malaria No More and UNICEF, Anglican Dioceses, Hindu Society, Japanese Embassy and the Red Cross Society

Dr. Caroline Akim, who gave WHO remarks on behalf of the WHO Representative, commended the Ministry of Health on its efforts towards achieving regional targets on universal coverage. She noted that the decision by the Ministry of Health to embark on free mass distribution of LLINs is a good reflection on the importance the Government of Botswana attaches to the fight against malaria.

In conclusion, she commended all partners for their contribution to the efforts of achieving universal coverage with Long Lasting Insecticide Nets.