Bednets

Bednets are promoted as an effective physical barrier to mosquitoes - which transmit Malaria. The tricky part is getting people to use them routinely and properly. The Hati Punguzo program helps rural Tanzanians, who are limited in both means and finances, to aquire insecticide-laden bednetting at a reduced rate.

Expectant mothers who are seen by health offices are given a voucher for the program, which they then turn upon purchasing a new bednet. Maternal mortality rate is the target, and this is one of many programs that helps improve that statistic.

Proper use of netting is another thing. I was told a story of many thousands of bednets being given to the Tanzanian people from the Bush government. In many cases, instead of using the nets for mosquito protection, they were used to catch fish. It stands to reason. Being hungry is a lot more of an immediate concern than the chance I may get malaria.