In Benin, a new digital approach is transforming the fight against malaria, bringing efficiency and equity to mosquito net distribution. Every three years, the nation conducts a mass campaign to deliver free long-lasting insecticide-treated nets, supported by the World Health Organization (WHO) and other partners. In the latest initiative, over 8 million nets are set to reach nearly 4 million households.
This sixth campaign edition introduces digital tools, revolutionizing stock management and improving service delivery. Community health workers, equipped with tablets, visit homes across Benin. Ambroisine Agbowadan, a health worker in Ouidah, exemplifies this modern approach. Each morning, she collects her daily stock from local coordinator Cyprien Zinsou, ensuring precise accounting with digital records.
Today, Ambroisine’s team aims to distribute 100 nets, starting with Christine Monlandjo, a mother of four. Using her tablet, Ambroisine verifies household details and conducts a brief educational session on mosquito prevention. The digital system simplifies the process, allowing recipients like Christine to easily receive their nets without previous logistical hurdles.
Malaria remains a leading health challenge in Benin, especially affecting children under five. Innovative strategies, including community health reinforcement and digitalization, are crucial in reducing its incidence. Recent figures show a decline in disease rates, with incidence dropping from 41% to 38% from 2022 to 2024.
For the 2026 campaign, nearly 16,000 community health workers and over 500 specialists are mobilized. Supervisors like Juste Sodansou monitor distribution in real-time, ensuring adherence to protocols and stock management through synchronized tablets.
After nine days, Ambroisine has distributed 754 nets, highlighting the efficiency of the digital system. Dr. Raoul Saizonou of WHO Benin underscores the benefits: “This method allows health workers to serve more families while maintaining accurate data. Our goal, alongside the Ministry of Health, is a malaria-free Benin.”
Community leader Zinsou praises the digital system for reducing complaints and enhancing accountability. “Previously, managing distribution was challenging, but now, with the digital registry, every recipient is recorded, ensuring fair access,” he says.
