Malaria claims 16 lives weekly at Tanzania’s refugee camp
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What you need to know:
- The suspension of insecticide spraying in the camp nearly three years ago has contributed to the increase in malaria infections.
Kigoma. At least 16 people, including children under five and pregnant women, succumb to malaria every week at Nyarugusu refugee camp in Kasulu District, Kigoma Region, officials have revealed.
Speaking yesterday after receiving a donation of 5,000 mosquito nets and other essential supplies from Itel Tanzania, the Nyarugusu Refugee Camp Commander, Mr Siasa Manjenje, said malaria accounts for 40 percent of all reported illnesses in the camp.
He attributed the rise in malaria cases over recent years (2023/2024) to dwindling donor funding, which has adversely affected essential services, including healthcare.
“Tanzania has generously provided refuge for these individuals, but we rely on international organisations for support. Unfortunately, funding constraints have led to a decline in healthcare services, medicine supply, and medical equipment,” Mr Manjenje said.
He added that the suspension of insecticide spraying in the camp nearly three years ago has contributed to the increase in malaria infections.
Some refugees who received the donated supplies called on other stakeholders to step in and help address urgent needs, noting that neither the government nor international organisations can manage the crisis alone due to economic challenges.
Ms Zabibu Bwenge said the mosquito nets would help reduce maternal and child deaths caused by malaria, but insisted that more supplies were needed to effectively combat the disease.
“The mosquito nets we received today are insufficient given the number of people in need. Vulnerable groups, such as young children, pregnant women, and the elderly, should be prioritised. We urge more stakeholders to recognise the severity of this issue and offer their support,” said another refugee, Ms Mbogeka Matumaini.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Itel Tanzania’s Marketing Manager, Ms Sophia Msafiri, said the company had partnered with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to support the government in assisting refugees.
“As a company, Itel is not only focused on technology but also community welfare. Today, we have donated 5,000 mosquito nets, 5,000 pieces of kanga and vitenge fabric, 5,000 sanitary towels, and undergarments for both men and women, all valued at approximately Sh100 million,” she said.
Nyarugusu refugee camp hosts 135,000 refugees from seven African nations, including the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Burundi, Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, and Sudan.