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Public urged to support data collectors during malaria survey 

29 November 2024, 4:11 pm

By Byamukama Alozious

The Ministry of Health, in partnership with the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), has launched the Malaria Indicator Survey (MIS) to assess the impact of malaria control measures. The survey, running from December 2024 to January 2025, is under the theme “Tracking Malaria: The Power of Data for a Healthier Uganda.”

Dr. Jimmy Opigo, Head of the Malaria Control Program, stated, “This survey will guide the ministry in understanding symptomatic and asymptomatic malaria behaviour, which is crucial for addressing the burden of malaria in Uganda.”

Minister of Health Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng called for public cooperation, highlighting the significance of the survey. She noted, “Uganda still has many malaria hotspots, contributing to 3% of global malaria deaths. However, due to interventions like mass mosquito net distributions and indoor spraying, the prevalence has been reducing.”

Speaking on the anticipated malaria vaccine, Dr. Aceng remarked, “Next year, the malaria vaccines are expected to make a big difference. While they will target children, I wish they also included elderly groups, I would be the first to get vaccinated. 

Minister Ruth Aceng (holding flag), Dr. Njuguna Charles and Hon. Christine Apolot and other officials while launching the malaria survey at ministry of health headquarters.

Dr. Njuguna Charles, WHO Representative, emphasised the importance of MIS, saying, “This survey aligns with WHO’s mandate to end malaria by 2030. WHO requires at least three such surveys to assess prevalence and implement aggressive efforts for elimination.” He stressed the need for community participation to ensure accurate data collection and awareness. 

Dr. Chris  Mukiza, UBOS Executive Director, reassured the public of data confidentiality, adding, “The system will flag inaccuracies, and data collectors must return to the field if required. We are committed to providing real-time, accurate data.”

The survey will involve 10,609 households, with 7,000 children undergoing malaria testing. Hon. Christine Apolot, Vice Chair Uganda Parliamentary Forum on Malaria pledged support, saying, “We will ensure sufficient funding for malaria control to strengthen the national response. Malaria remains a leading cause of mortality in Uganda, with 2,417 deaths recorded in 2023-2024. The MIS findings are expected to bolster Uganda’s efforts towards malaria elimination by 2030