Uganda has made significant progress in the fight against malaria, with 87% of households now owning at least one mosquito net, according to a new report released by the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS).
The findings, drawn from the latest Malaria Indicator Survey, also show that 84% of households possess at least one insecticide-treated net (ITN), a critical tool in preventing malaria transmission. However, while ownership levels are high, only 56% of households have enough nets to adequately cover all members, meaning gaps in protection still remain.
The report indicates that the majority of these nets—about 89%—were distributed through nationwide mass campaigns, underscoring the effectiveness of government-led public health interventions. Smaller numbers were accessed through routine healthcare services such as antenatal care (4%) and immunisation programmes (1%), while a small percentage was purchased privately or obtained through community channels.
Encouragingly, the use of mosquito nets among vulnerable groups has also improved. Among children under five years, usage rose from 60% in 2019 to 69% in 2025, while among pregnant women it increased from 65% to 72% over the same period. Health experts note that these groups are the most at risk of malaria complications, making these gains particularly important.
Despite the progress, challenges persist. Around 16% of households still lack any insecticide-treated nets, and 28% do not have enough to fully protect all occupants. UBOS has therefore called for expanded distribution efforts and increased supply to ensure universal coverage.
The findings align with Uganda’s Malaria Elimination Strategic Plan (2026–2030), which aims to protect at least 95% of the population through interventions such as long-lasting insecticidal nets, indoor residual spraying, and improved community awareness.
The last nationwide mosquito net distribution campaign was conducted between May and December 2023, and officials say continued investment in such programmes will be key to sustaining progress and ultimately eliminating malaria as a public health threat in Uganda.
