This archive report was first published on 28 June 2021.
On June 28, 2021, Kenya's Ministry of Health announced a new initiative to combat malaria using drones to spray mosquito breeding sites.
As part of the effort, the Ministry has partnered with SC Johnson, the East African Community, and the Society for Family Health to target areas around the Lake Basin in Western Kenya.
According to Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe, the use of drones is a move in the right direction, as it will help eliminate mosquitoes and reduce the spread of malaria.
"I am happy to note that our recently constituted End Malaria Council, working with the private sector has plans to deploy drones to spray mosquito breeding sites," Kagwe said.
The project aims to target borders with high population movement, securing the East African partner states.
Additionally, the government plans to donate free mosquito nets in affected areas, with the President's advisor, Dr. Willis Akhwale, donating 15 million nets in Bungoma and Kakamega.
Furthermore, 250,000 children have received the first-ever malaria vaccine, with most receiving three doses and waiting for the fourth.
