Malaria prevention project in Uganda

Working together for a malaria-free future

In 2025, Andrea Ristl developed an innovative train-the-trainer concept for a malaria prevention program in Uganda. With the clear goal of a malaria-free Uganda in mind, this project combines scientific findings with practical help for self-help. What makes it special is that local, trained community health workers are empowered to pass on their knowledge and bring about lasting change in their communities.

Initial situation: Malaria in Uganda

Uganda is one of the countries with the highest number of malaria cases worldwide. With an estimated 12.6 million cases and over 15,900 deaths in 2023, malaria remains the leading cause of death in the country, especially among children under five. Approximately 95 percent of the population lives in areas with frequent malaria transmission. [1][2]

There are significant regional differences:

• Northern regions (West Nile, Acholi, Lango, Karamoja): Highest transmission rates with over 450 cases per 1,000 inhabitants – the burden of disease is particularly dramatic here. [3][4][1]
• Eastern regions (Teso, Bukedi, Busoga): Medium transmission
• Central and western regions: Lower transmission
• Southwest (Kigezi region): Very low transmission

Although malaria prevalence among children under five fell from 45 percent (2009) to 9 percent (2019), but progress has stagnated since 2015. In 2021/2022, there were even epidemics in over 40 districts. The average test positivity rate is around 50 percent nationwide, and as high as 64 percent in epidemic areas in the north. [7][1][5]

For the local population, malaria is not only a health disaster, but also an economic one: the financial resources for medication are often completely lacking. The annual economic loss due to malaria amounts to over $500 million. [2]

Vision of a malaria-free future

MEIN KOMPASS has a clear vision: to achieve a malaria-free Uganda. Above all, we want to ensure that no child has to die from malaria.

To achieve this ambitious goal, we conducted extensive research: Which malaria prevention programs are scientifically most effective? Which methods can be implemented cost-effectively and sustainably in rural regions of Uganda? Based on numerous scientific studies and practical experience reports, we have developed a holistic concept based on proven substances.

What we do: Train-the-trainer for sustainable impact

Our approach is practical, participatory, and sustainable. We conduct research, develop holistic and innovative solutions for malaria prevention, and offer a two-day train-the-trainer program based on our findings and experience reports.

Who we help: Helping people help themselves

Our services are aimed directly at the population in rural regions of Uganda. Information and practical assistance for regional application is provided by trained trainers – doctors, nurses, and village health workers. This is to ensure the safe use of the remedies and direct support on site.

Sustainable self-sufficiency

For sustainable and long-term use, we rely on a simple but effective approach: the necessary ingredients should be available or grown in almost every household. Two to three plants are sufficient for a large family. Alternatively, cultivation can be carried out communally on existing fields. Community leaders ensure sustainability and guarantee that access to the necessary resources is maintained.

This approach provides genuine help for self-help: people become less dependent on unaffordable medicines and can protect themselves and their families.

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