How Karongi’s Community Health Workers Tackle Malaria at the Grassroots Level

Elias Hakizimana Apr 18, 2024Apr 18, 2024 0 Comments

By Elias Hakizimana.

As Rwanda gears up to mark World Malaria Day 2024, residents of Rubengera sector in Karongi district commend the efforts of Community Health Workers (CHWs) in addressing malaria cases right in their villages.

This proactive approach means patients can receive early testing and treatment without traveling long distances to health facilities.

Karongi district, known for its geographical and weather conditions that favor mosquito breeding, is among the regions in Rwanda with a high malaria prevalence.

During a media briefing as part of an ongoing awareness campaign, Yvonne Uwitonze, a mother of four from Gitwa village in Mataba cell, Rubengera sector, expressed gratitude for the impact of CHWs in their community. She highlighted how the Ministry of Health (MoH) efforts, channeled through the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC), have empowered CHWs with the skills to diagnose and treat malaria locally.

***Yvonne Uwitonze praises Community Health Workers for their lifesaving efforts in Gitwa village, Rubengera sector, empowered by Ministry of Health initiatives.***

“Malaria is no longer a major concern in our area. CHWs conduct tests and administer medication right here in the village. In case of severe cases, they refer patients to health facilities for further treatment. Recently, my son had a headache, fever, and pain. After visiting the CHW, he received treatment and recovered,” Uwitonze shared.

She also mentioned that factors contributing to malaria prevalence in their village include proximity to Lake Kivu and nearby wetlands, which serve as mosquito breeding grounds. Additionally, CHWs distribute mosquito nets as a preventive measure to reduce malaria transmission.

Beatha Nyirakanani, another resident whose daughter received prompt treatment from CHWs for malaria, emphasized the vital role of these frontline health workers.

“When my daughter had malaria symptoms, the CHW conducted a test and provided Coartem tablets upon diagnosis. Within three days of treatment, she recovered fully,” Nyirakanani recounted.

Emmanuel Musabyimana, a CHW from Gitwa village, highlighted the effectiveness of their interventions in treating malaria and other common diseases like diarrhea and pneumonia, especially among children.

“We are well-equipped to diagnose and provide appropriate treatment to malaria patients. Severe cases are promptly referred to nearby health centers. Our approach is patient-centered,” Musabyimana explained.

*Emmanuel Musabyimana, a dedicated Community Health Worker in Gitwa village, Mataba cell, Rubengera sector, discusses the impact of their interventions in combating malaria and other health challenges.*

He noted a significant decrease in malaria cases compared to earlier months in 2024 but cautioned against negligence in maintaining hygiene, eliminating mosquito breeding sites, and delaying testing and treatment.

“We advise citizens to clear bushes and eliminate stagnant water that serves as mosquito breeding sites. We conduct regular household visits to educate residents on mosquito prevention and encourage the use of mosquito nets,” Musabyimana added.

According to recent data from RBC, (Key Malaria Cases Indicators 2018-2023), there has been a notable increase in the proportion of malaria cases treated at the community level by CHWs, rising from 57 percent in 2018/2019 to 59 percent in 2022/2023 nationwide.

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