Authorities in Yei River County have launched a mosquito net distribution campaign expected to reach more than 227,700 people as part of efforts to curb malaria, one of the leading causes of illness in South Sudan.
The campaign, led by the county health department in partnership with Health Link South Sudan, begins with the training of distribution teams to ensure the transparent and effective delivery of insecticide-treated nets to households across the county.
Rema David, a representative of Health Link, said more than 9.5 million mosquito nets funded by the World Bank and managed by UNICEF were being distributed across South Sudan.
“In Central Equatoria State, the programme is being implemented by Health Link South Sudan. In Yei, we expect more than 590,000 people to benefit from the campaign,” David said.
County Health Director Simon Sebit urged health workers and distribution teams to ensure the nets reach all intended beneficiaries and called on local chiefs and community leaders to support the exercise.
“We want these nets to reach everyone. That is why distribution will be conducted by people from the respective communities to avoid duplication and ensure fair coverage,” Sebit said.
Residents welcomed the initiative and encouraged households to use the mosquito nets for their intended purpose.
Agnes Koroko, a resident of Yei town, said the nets would help protect families from mosquito bites and reduce cases of malaria.
“These nets are meant to protect people from malaria. Communities should use them properly and not for other purposes,” she said.
Yei Town Director Rose Doru Simbe also appealed to local leaders to monitor the use of the nets and discourage residents from using them in gardens, farms or temporary shelters.
“It is our responsibility as local authorities and community leaders to ensure these nets are distributed fairly and used as intended to protect families from malaria,” Simbe said.
Malaria remains a major public health challenge in South Sudan, particularly during the rainy season when mosquito breeding increases.
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