Baringo County has recently been allocated 290,000 mosquito nets across three subcounties as part of a broader malaria prevention initiative.
This program, funded by the Global Fund, is designed to distribute treated mosquito nets to all 20 malaria-prone counties in Kenya.
During a recent event at the Kemsa depot in Nakuru, Kemsa CEO Waqo Dulacha Ejersa expressed enthusiasm about their role in the distribution effort.
He highlighted that each household will receive four nets to protect over a million individuals, with a particular focus on pregnant women and children under five.
These nets are expected to remain effective for three years.
Waqo emphasized the support of the Global Fund and the US government, which have contributed significantly through the National Treasury, providing 10.9 million nets to about 22 counties.
Four counties received nets through different methods, while Kemsa is tasked with distributing to the remaining 18 counties.
He also pointed out that this initiative marks a new approach, with Kemsa now handling last-mile delivery something not done in previous campaigns.
This effort is facilitated through collaboration with the National Malaria Program, which identifies recipients and coordinates distribution.
Baringo Deputy Governor Felix Maiyo, speaking at the flag-off event at Muserech Dispensary, outlined the distribution plan for the county.
Eldama Ravine will receive 95,000 nets, Mogotio 72,000, and Baringo South 80,000.
Maiyo explained that these areas are particularly vulnerable due to highland malaria and irrigation projects that create conducive environments for mosquito breeding.
Maiyo highlighted the financial burden of malaria treatment and stressed the importance of prevention.
He urged Baringo residents and Kenyans in general to adhere to preventive measures.
The county administration confirmed that Tiaty West has seen a significant malaria outbreak, with 40% of the population affected, and is addressing the issue through various prevention and treatment strategies.
Chief Officer for Medical Services Winnie Bore praised Kemsa for its effective distribution and expressed a commitment to enhancing the county’s relationship with the authority to improve health supply chains.
County Health Executive Solomon Sirma endorsed Kemsa’s role, noting their capability to reach remote areas with quality supplies at affordable rates.
Community leader William Kimeli also emphasized the critical nature of malaria in the region and called for improvements in health services, including upgrading local dispensaries and enhancing drug distribution.
So far, mosquito nets have been distributed in Kilifi, Lamu, and Nyanza counties, with ongoing efforts in Kirinyaga and Turkana.
Waqo confirmed that Nandi and Kericho counties have also been added to the list of beneficiaries.
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