Ghana

Overview

NetWorks in Ghana (2012-2014) provides technical assistance to the National Malaria Control Program (NMCP), Ghana Health Service (GHS) and Ghana Education Service (GES) to build and expand on the LLIN distribution system. A pilot of the new continuous distribution system began in the Eastern Region, and in 2013 the distribution system rolled out nationwide, to all 10 regions of Ghana.

Continuous Distribution of LLINs

To increase access and availability of LLINs, three distribution channels are being implemented: antenatal care (ANC) clinics, child welfare clinics (CWC) and school-based distribution. Through the enhanced routine system, LLINs will be distributed to pregnant women at first ANC visit, to children when they receive their second measles booster vaccine at child welfare clinics, and in schools to children in second and sixth grades. From October 2012 to September 2013, a total of 1,427,169 LLINs were distributed nationwide using the three distribution channels.

NetWorks has piloted a subsidy program through the private sector supply chain in the Greater Koforidua area in the Eastern Region. A mobile SMS platform provides e-coupons which are redeemed--at an affordable price--through private retailers in the community. Expectations are that this will be implemented throughout Ghana and will motivate the private sector’s investment in malaria control.

BCC and Community Mobilization

At the start, NetWorks coordinated a two-day consensus-building workshop for implementation partners to confirm roles and update the BCC/community mobilization implementation strategy for continuous distribution of LLINs. NetWorks works closely with NMCP, BCS project, GHS, CRS and Ghana Education Service in the coordination and production of community mobilization and behavior change communication materials. NetWorks has collaborated with the Behavior Change Support (BCS) project to develop the second phase of the national LLIN mass media campaign, “Ntumtum po suro,” which addresses the barriers to LLIN use and informs on the correct care and maintenance of nets. 

Documentary: A Focus on Ghana’s School-based Distribution of LLINs

This 6:47-minute documentary shows Ghana's school-based distribution of long lasting insecticidal nets. Interviews with implementers from the National Malaria Control Program, School Health Education Program and Ghana Health Service describe the national strategy for continuous distribution and in detail the school-based distribution of LLINs. 

Research

A continuous distribution model was piloted in the Eastern Region from 2011-2013. LLINs were distributed through Antenatal Clinics, Child Welfare Clinics under the Expanded Programme for Immunization (EPI) and primary schools. A small-scale E-Voucher pilot was conducted through the private sector from 2013-2014, and had just begun implementation at the time of the endline survey. The endline survey conducted in December 2013, measured the outcome of the continuous distribution pilot.

NetWorks Eastern Region CD Pilot Endline Survey Report 2014 (PDF 1.8MB)