Caritas Rwanda Promotes Malaria Prevention, Early Treatment in Four Sectors Reporting High Cases

Caritas Rwanda conducted a malaria awareness campaign from October 25 to 29 in four sectors with high infection rates. The campaign targeted the Nkanka Sector in Rusizi District, the Bushenge Sector in Nyamasheke District, and the Boneza and Mushubati sectors in Rutsiro District.

Caritas Rwanda officials stated the campaign aimed to strengthen community prevention and awareness in these specific areas. Through community assemblies and Umuganda, or community work, residents learned about malaria transmission, symptoms, and prevention methods. The campaign encouraged residents to eliminate mosquito breeding sites and seek early diagnosis and treatment.

The program also introduced residents to Rwanda’s Multiple First-Line Therapies strategy. This approach uses different approved antimalarial medicines to treat uncomplicated malaria depending on the specific geographical area. Caritas Rwanda officials said the strategy helps prevent malaria parasites from developing resistance to a single medicine, which preserves the effectiveness of available treatments.