Mosquito Nets to Prevent Malaria in Zambia

World Centric + Power of Love

$25,466 from profits from fiscal year 2020

In 2019, an estimated 409,000 people died of malaria, even though it is both preventable and curable. Sub-Saharan Africa accounting for 94% of malaria cases and deaths. Zambia is one of 20 countries with the highest malaria incidence and mortality worldwide. Zambia also has high prevalence of HIV, which increases risk due to co-infection rates between HIV, TB, and malaria. Since 42% of the population lives in extreme poverty, they cannot afford mosquito nets, which are a low-cost, easy, and effective way to prevent malaria. It is critical to provide these nets, as malaria can be fatal for vulnerable populations such as children under five, pregnant women, and people living with HIV.

According to the World Health Organization, sleeping under a net is one of the most effective and cheapest methods of preventing malaria. Proper use of a net can save lives for just pennies per day as a net can last up to two years and the cost is just $5. POL identifies beneficiary families and organizations to receive free, long-lasting, insecticide treated nets. They provide training on the impacts of malaria (especially on HIV+ children and pregnant women), how to identify the symptoms, instruction on how to remove mosquito breeding grounds, and training on how to correctly use and maintain nets. They also host a Malaria Prevention Day to educate the entire community.

This is the continuation of a project we began funding annually in 2014.

The Impact

7,000 long-lasting, insecticide-treated nets distributed in 5 urban and rural communities in Zambia. This will benefit 25,000-50,0000 people, as 1 net can sleep up to 4 children or 2 adults. POL will provide education on malaria prevention and a demonstration on the proper use, storage and re-treatment of nets.

Indirect Impacts:

• Reduction in cases of malaria
• Increase in health due to stronger immune system
• Increased in school attendance for children
• Increase in community knowledge of better hygiene practices.

About Power of Love

A World Centric partner since 2014.

POL funds and runs projects in Zambia and India targeted toward helping women and children infected/affected with HIV/AIDS. Their vision is a world where the AIDS epidemic is in continuous retreat, and people living with HIV have access to loving care and treatment in an environment free of stigma and discrimination.