BY ROSE KASIGWA

The Government of Uganda, through its implementing agency, National Medical Stores (NMS), today officially launched the 5th Universal Coverage Campaign for the nationwide distribution of Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITNs) at the NMS Head Office in Kajjansi.

This critical public health initiative aims to bolster malaria prevention efforts across the country by ensuring every household receives at least one ITN.

The flag-off ceremony, was presided over by the Minister of Health, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, This event officially marked the commencement of a nationwide campaign designed to reduce malaria-related illness and deaths across the country.

A total of 25.8 million mosquito nets will be distributed across 130 districts, excluding districts fully covered under the Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) programme. The campaign is funded by the Government of Uganda, with support from the Global Fund to Fight HIV, TB and Malaria, and additional support from the United States Government.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Aceng highlighted malaria as a persistent public health challenge. The 2025 Malaria Indicator Survey shows malaria prevalence has increased to 12.5%, up from 9.2% in 2018. According to the World Malaria Report 2024, Uganda contributes 5% of global malaria cases, ranking third worldwide and 2.7% of global malaria deaths, ranking ninth globally.