Insecticide-Treated Nets

The project pursues a 3-pronged strategy:

1. aggressive distribution to widen the availability of ITNs in urban and rural shops and supermarkets;
2. increased affordability of nets through a 2-tier subsidy, with a higher subsidy in rural areas; and
3. increased demand for nets through an intensive national communication campaign.

With regard to the latter, project organisers devised the following strategies to overcome barriers to achieving the RBM target and establishing sustainable ITN supply:

• Creating informed demand and promoting health: PSI conducts both branded and generic communication campaigns in an effort to increase awareness of malaria risks and build demand for ITNs. These messages are delivered through mass media and interpersonal communicators.
• Targeted Subsidy: selling several products at different prices through diverse outlets to multiple groups, increasing access to ITNs while maximising cost recovery, and engaging the commercial sector. Where appropriate, highly subsidised ITNs are delivered through the public sector and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
• Partnerships: PSI partners with commercial companies, NGOs, and national malaria programmes to ensure coordination and maximise distribution opportunities.
• Monitoring the market: A monitoring tool guides the evolution of programme strategy, consistent with maximising ITN coverage and developing the commercial market.

The campaign also works to educate community members and change behaviour through what are intended to be innovative and entertaining communication programmes that educate people about malaria transmission and prevention. Information programmes are held in antenatal clinics, community women’s group meetings, and marketplaces to reach rural women. PSI Kenya trains and employs nurses, health educators, and direct marketing groups. In rural communities, PSI holds events such as the Supanet Festival, where people have a daylong opportunity to learn about malaria and the need for ITNs via drama, discussions, and games.

Health, Immunisation & Vaccines.