On November 3, 2026, Mauritania's health authorities launched a national campaign to distribute over 1.1 million long-lasting insecticide-treated bed nets. The campaign, led by the Mauritanian Ministry of Health, aims to strengthen malaria prevention and control measures. The initiative was launched in the city of Rosso by the Ministry's advisor, Mr. Awel Ould Amied, and the economic and local development advisor to the governor of Trarza, Mr. Mohamed Seyed Merzouk.
The campaign targets the distribution of 1,158,400 bed nets to 2,059,475 people, representing 351,111 families across 22 districts in the eastern and western regions of the Hodh, as well as the regions of Assaba, Corcl, Kédimaga, and Trarza. The bed nets are designed to provide long-lasting protection against malaria, a major health and social challenge in Mauritania. The country's health authorities have made significant efforts to combat the disease, which poses a substantial burden on households and healthcare facilities, particularly in high-risk areas.
According to the Ministry of Health, the campaign is part of a broader strategy to improve living conditions and access to basic services, as outlined in the vision of President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani. The President's vision prioritizes the health sector, recognizing the importance of effective healthcare in achieving sustainable development. The Ministry has expressed its gratitude to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, the World Health Organization, and other technical and financial partners for their support in implementing national health programs.
The National Malaria Control Program's coordinator, Mr. Bab Ould Bell, highlighted the significance of the bed net distribution campaign in expanding protection against malaria and ensuring that preventive measures reach the most vulnerable populations. He emphasized that long-lasting insecticide-treated bed nets are a crucial tool in preventing malaria, providing protection during sleep and reducing the spread of the disease-carrying mosquito.
The launch ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials, including the governor of Rosso, the deputy president of the Trarza region, the mayor of Rosso, the regional health director, and representatives from the World Health Organization and civil society organizations. The event marked a significant milestone in Mauritania's efforts to combat malaria and improve public health.
The distribution of bed nets is a critical component of Mauritania's malaria control strategy, which aims to reduce the incidence of the disease and ultimately eliminate it. The campaign is expected to have a positive impact on the health and well-being of communities across the country, particularly in areas with high malaria transmission rates.
The Mauritanian government's commitment to addressing malaria and other public health challenges has been recognized by international partners and stakeholders. The country's progress in implementing effective malaria control measures is seen as a model for other countries in the region. Key points: - The campaign aims to distribute 1,158,400 long-lasting insecticide-treated bed nets to 2,059,475 people. - The initiative is part of a broader strategy to improve living conditions and access to basic services. - The distribution of bed nets is a critical component of Mauritania's malaria control strategy.
