The Okavango District Council (ODC) has intensified malaria awareness campaigns amid concerns that this year’s high flood levels in the Okavango Delta could trigger a surge in cases when the transmission season begins.
The district’s malaria season typically runs from October to March. In March this year, the district recorded over 570 cases and five deaths, with the spike placing a significant strain on the region’s limited healthcare resources.
Speaking during a recent media briefing in Shakawe regarding the council’s achievements, challenges, and strategic direction, ODC Chairperson Gaopalelwe Ronald said authorities are closely monitoring the flood situation, as stagnant water creates ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
He stated that the District Disaster Committee is keeping a close watch on water levels to determine whether the floods are receding, while preparations to prevent a potential malaria outbreak are already underway.
“We are encouraging communities to continue taking malaria prevention measures, including allowing Indoor Residual Spraying in their homes and removing stagnant water where mosquitoes breed,” Ronald said.
He noted that the council has stepped up public education campaigns to ensure residents are fully aware of the risks before the malaria season begins.
As part of the district’s preventive efforts, Ronald said approximately 40,000 mosquito repellent devices were distributed earlier this year to communities identified as being at the highest risk of malaria infection.
He emphasized that the council remains committed to reducing malaria infections through continuous awareness campaigns and targeted preventive measures to protect vulnerable communities.
Meanwhile, Ronald revealed that the council is also grappling with waste management challenges due to the absence of a regional landfill and the limited carrying capacity of existing dumping sites across the district.
He disclosed that the construction of a landfill, alongside the rehabilitation of current dumping sites, has been included in the National Development Plan 12 (NDP 12) and the District Development Plan 9.
According to the Chairperson, the planned landfill will improve waste disposal services, promote recycling, and contribute to a cleaner environment for residents.
He added that the council is actively engaging the business community for support in fencing existing dumping sites to improve safety and minimize illegal dumping.
On the council’s service delivery performance, Ronald reported that significant progress has been made in the health sector.
The district achieved a 100 percent performance rate in HIV/AIDS response programs and a 93 percent achievement rate in maternal health services. Ronald described these results as a reflection of the council’s ongoing commitment to improving community wellbeing.
Despite these achievements, Ronald said the council remains focused on addressing structural challenges while strengthening essential public health services and preparing for the upcoming malaria season.
