KAMPALA, Uganda — The latest Uganda Malaria Indicator Survey 2024–2025 has revealed a rise in malaria prevalence to 13%, up from 10% recorded in 2018–2019, raising fresh concerns about the country’s fight against one of its deadliest diseases.
According to findings released by the Ministry of Health Uganda, the increase comes despite significant progress in prevention measures, particularly the widespread distribution and use of insecticide-treated mosquito nets (ITNs).
The survey indicates that 84% of households now own at least one mosquito net, while 71% of the population has access to one. Additionally, 65% of Ugandans reported sleeping under an ITN the night before the survey.
Usage rates were even higher among vulnerable groups, with 69% of children under five and 72% of pregnant women sleeping under mosquito nets. Furthermore, 73% of pregnant women reported taking at least three doses of preventive malaria treatment (SP/Fansidar) during pregnancy.
Despite these gains, malaria remains prevalent, particularly among children. The survey found that 13% of children aged 6–59 months tested positive for malaria, while 57% of children under five who had fever in the two weeks preceding the survey were tested for the disease.
Encouragingly, awareness levels remain high, with 93% of women acknowledging that malaria is preventable. However, only 48% reported recently hearing or seeing malaria-related messages, highlighting gaps in ongoing public health communication.
Radio continues to play a critical role in information dissemination, accounting for 56% of malaria-related messaging, making it the most effective channel for reaching communities.
Health experts say the findings underscore the need to strengthen prevention strategies, improve consistent use of mosquito nets, and expand testing and treatment services, particularly in high-risk areas.
