Malaria Prevention Saves Lives

According to the World Health Organisation 'In 2021, nearly half of the world's population was at risk of malaria. That year, there were an estimated 247 million cases of malaria worldwide.'

We are delighted to learn that our contribution to the fight against malaria in Zambia is producing significant results. Livingstone is the capitol of tourism. The City Council this week announced that our safe interventions have resulted in the area being virtually malaria-free. Using larvicide, a safe product that prevents larva developing into mosquito, the mosquito population has reduced significantly in Livingstone and surrounding areas.

Children are at most risk of contracting malaria therefore it is vital that mosquito nets are provided to protect them. Working with the Ministry of Health's environmental technicians we learn where the malaria 'hotspots' are located. We recently targeted are Boombwe where we have just completed a health post, which includes a clinic, two staff houses, toilets and a biodigester for waste. The facilities enable people living in remote areas to get tested and treated for malaria in the early stages, and can help to prevent the loss of life. 

Schools in the vicinity of Boombwe have been given mosquito nets to protect pupils and teachers. The Butterfly Tree's 'mosquito nets for schools' is helping to reduce malaria cases in Zambia and supports the global fight against malaria.

This month we are commencing the construction of a health post in Mabwe, a remote area in the Nyawa Chiefdom. The facility will cater for 40,000 people and will include prenatal and post-natal care, vaccinations for children, malaria, and HIV prevention and treatment. This will be the seventh rural help post built by The Butterfly Tree. In the meantime, we will donate mosquito nets to schools in this area prior to the onset of the rainy season in November.

Many thanks to all our donors for supporting this vital programme.