2018 Benin End of Spray Report

The campaign objectives included reducing malaria cases, improving public awareness, and enhancing community participation. The campaign was conducted in two phases, from April 30 to May 23 and from May 10 to June 2, 2018. Preparation for the campaign involved planning and logistics, including procurement of personal protective equipment and insecticides. Training sessions were conducted for spray teams, and information, education, and communication (IEC) activities were implemented to raise awareness among the community. IEC activities included advocacy meetings, town criers, and radio broadcasts, which were effective in mobilizing the community and promoting the campaign. The implementation of IRS activities involved the launch of the spray campaign, short-term technical assistance, and spray operation and supervision. The spray operation was conducted in 15 districts, with a total of 1,200 spray teams participating. The teams sprayed 1,350,000 structures, protecting a population of 4,500,000 people. The use of long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) was also promoted, with 1,200,000 LLINs distributed to the community. Monitoring and evaluation were critical components of the campaign, with key objectives including data management, processing, and quality assurance. The campaign achieved significant results, including a 95% completion rate of the spray operation, a 90% coverage rate of the target population, and a 75% distribution rate of LLINs. The campaign also demonstrated environmental compliance, with no reported incidents of environmental damage. The campaign faced several challenges, including logistical issues, equipment shortages, and community resistance. However, lessons were learned from these challenges, and recommendations were made to improve future campaigns. The campaign demonstrated the importance of community participation, effective IEC activities, and robust monitoring and evaluation systems in achieving successful malaria control outcomes. The IRS country capacity assessment revealed that Benin has a well-established IRS program, with a strong capacity for planning, implementation, and monitoring. However, the program faces challenges in terms of funding, equipment, and human resources. The assessment recommended strengthening the program's capacity, improving logistics and supply chain management, and enhancing community participation. The gender assessment revealed that women played a significant role in the campaign, with 55% of spray teams consisting of female members. However, the assessment also highlighted the need to improve women's participation in decision-making and leadership positions within the program. Overall, the 2018 IRS campaign in Benin demonstrated significant achievements in malaria control, with a strong focus on community participation, IEC activities, and robust monitoring and evaluation systems. The campaign faced several challenges, but lessons were learned, and recommendations were made to improve future campaigns. The program's capacity for planning, implementation, and monitoring was demonstrated, but challenges in terms of funding, equipment, and human resources were identified.