Government, through National Medical Stores, has today officially flagged off the 5th Universal Coverage Campaign for the distribution of Insecticides Treated Nets at the National Medical Stores Head Office in Kajjansi.
The flag-off ceremony was presided over by the Minister of Health, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, marking the commencement of a nationwide campaign aimed at reducing malaria-related illness and deaths by achieving over 80% universal coverage, in line with the Uganda Malaria Strategic Plan 2025–2030.
A total of 25.8 million mosquito nets will be distributed across 130 districts, excluding districts fully covered under the Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) programme.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Aceng highlighted malaria as a persistent public health challenge. The 2025 Malaria Indicator Survey shows malaria prevalence has increased to 12.5%, up from 9.2% in 2018.
According to the World Malaria Report 2024, Uganda contributes 5% of global malaria cases, ranking third worldwide, and 2.7% of global malaria deaths, ranking ninth globally.
The General Manager of National Medical Stores, Moses Kamabare, reaffirmed NMS’ commitment to ensuring efficient and accountable delivery of the mosquito nets.
“National Medical Stores is fully prepared to execute its mandate of receiving, warehousing, and distributing these mosquito nets safely and efficiently across the country. Leveraging our nationwide logistics infrastructure and systems, we are committed to supporting Government to ensure that every net reaches the intended communities in a timely and accountable manner,” Kamabare said.
The World Health Organization (WHO) commended Uganda for strengthening prevention efforts through government-led systems.
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Andrew Bakainaga, the WHO Representative, said:
“This campaign demonstrates Uganda’s strong commitment to malaria prevention and the effective use of national systems to deliver life-saving interventions. Consistent use of insecticide-treated nets remains one of the most effective tools for reducing malaria transmission, and WHO continues to support Government’s efforts toward malaria control and elimination.”
The campaign will be implemented in five waves to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. Wave One targets 20 high-burden districts, including Amolatar, Alebtong, Apac, Budaka, Bugweri, Buyende, Dokolo, Iganga, Jinja, Jinja City, Kaliro, Kamuli, Kole, Kwania, Lira, Lira City, Mbale, Mbale City, Otuke, and Oyam.
The distribution exercise is being implemented through local governments, with National Medical Stores responsible for the receipt, warehousing, and nationwide distribution of mosquito nets.
The campaign is funded by the Government of Uganda, with support from the Global Fund to Fight HIV, TB and Malaria, and additional support from the United States Government.
