Community perceptions and practices in malaria vector control in Tanzania: a case study of Kinondoni District, Dar Es Salaam
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Date
2012
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Publisher
University of Dar es Salaam
Abstract
Malaria continues pressing a great burden on the already depressed country economy through its severe impact on people’s lives. Various control and prevention measures have been put in place in the country but still the disease continues to impact largely the welfare of local communities. It has been argued that the successes of malaria control programmes rely heavily on community perceptions and practices related to causes, transmission and control measures of malaria. This study made a critical assessment of community perceptions and practices in malaria vector control in Kinondoni District. A case study research was conducted in the selected three wards namely Msasani, Mwananyamala and Kimara where potential mosquito breeding sites are found. Both qualitative and quantitative research techniques were used namely: in-depth interview, documents review and questionnaire to explore insights on perceptions, attitudes and practices in malaria vector control measures. A total of a hundred respondents were surveyed by using a questionnaire and nine key informants were interviewed. The specific objectives for the study were to assess community awareness of malaria and malaria vector control measures in the districts; to assess community attitudes on malaria vector control measures in the district and lastly to investigate community practices in malaria vector control measures in the district. The study results show that the majority (98%) perceived malaria to be one of the most killing diseases in the country. About 33% correctly recognized the mode of malaria transmission and 43% correctly recognized breeding sites. Regarding practices in preventive and control measures, the majority (91%) owned and used ITNs while only 20% practiced environmental activities which aimed at eliminating mosquito breeding and resting sites. Challenges to fight the malaria vector such as lack of knowledge, limited resources, low degree of decentralization, poor perceptions were mentioned at all levels from community, local government to the municipal level. For the success and sustainability of malaria vector control measures, it is important to understand people’s perceptions and practices toward control and prevention measures. Therefore, this study recommends that efforts are needed at both the central and local government levels to address existing challenges which impede community participation and practices in malaria vector control measures. Continual education should be provided to the community by using media and health facilities to sensitize community to take charges of their health by applying preventive measures at the household level.
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Keywords
Malaria control, Community participation, Kinondoni district, Tanzania
Citation
Kapinga, L (2012) Community perceptions and practices in malaria vector control in Tanzania: a case study of Kinondoni District, Dar Es Salaam, Master dissertation, University of Dar es Salaam. (Available at http://41.86.178.3/internetserver3.1.2/search.aspx)