KAMPALA – Uganda has taken a decisive step in its fight against malaria with the official launch of a massive mosquito net distribution campaign. Health Minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero on Tuesday flagged off the first trucks carrying millions of nets destined for 130 districts across the nation.
The initiative marks the beginning of preparations for a nationwide distribution exercise scheduled to commence in January 2026. In total, an impressive 25.8 million insecticide-treated mosquito nets will be distributed free of charge to households, aiming to protect millions of Ugandans from malaria, a leading cause of illness and death in the country.
Minister Aceng Ocero emphasized that the first phase of the campaign, dubbed “Wave 1,” will prioritize 20 high-burden districts. These include Amolatar, Alebtong, Apac, Budaka, Bugweri, Buyende, Dokolo, Iganga, Jinja District, Jinja City, Kaliro, Kamuli, Kole, Kwania, Lira District, Lira City, Mbale District, Mbale City, Otuke, and Oyam.
“The selection is based on areas with the highest malaria burden and incidence,” the Minister stated. “Our goal is to ensure that the most vulnerable populations are shielded first as we roll out this critical intervention.”
The ambitious campaign is a collaborative effort, backed by significant financial support from the Government of Uganda, The Global Fund, and the United States Government. This multi-partner funding underscores the shared commitment to malaria prevention and public health strengthening.
On the ground, the distribution will be a coordinated operation involving local government authorities, with the National Medical Stores (NMS Uganda) acting as the lead distribution agency. This structure is designed to ensure efficient logistics and community-level reach.
Malaria remains endemic in Uganda, with the Ministry of Health identifying it as a top public health priority. The free mass distribution of mosquito nets is considered one of the most effective and cost-efficient strategies to reduce transmission, particularly among children under five and pregnant women.
As the trucks depart for the initial 20 districts, the Ministry of Health urges all communities to prepare for the January rollout and to use the nets consistently and correctly once received. This campaign represents one of the largest single health interventions in the country in recent years, offering a renewed hope for a significant reduction in malaria cases in 2026 and beyond.
About the Campaign:
· Start Date: Nationwide distribution begins January 2026.
· Target: 25.8 million nets to 130 districts.
· First Wave: 20 high-burden districts receiving immediate shipments.
· Key Partners: Government of Uganda, The Global Fund, United States Government.
· Implementing Agency: National Medical Stores (NMS Uganda) supported by Local Governments.
