DDT is an indoor spray that was used during the early 1950s until 1997, when environmentalists and other lobby groups pressurised the government to discontinue its use. 

Ntebela said that these groups criticised the use of DDT in the belief that it could cause food contamination.

They complained that it poses a health hazard to wildlife and insects, which might not necessarily be targeted. 

However, Ntebela said that there is no need to worry as long as users of DDT follow WHO recommendations.  "DDT poses no threat to the environment as long as recommendations are observed." He added that after the withdrawal of DDT in 1997, Synthetic Pyrethroids were introduced. "Botswana is one of the countries earmarked for malaria elimination, and this has seen the reintroduction of DDT," Ntebela said.

It is reintroduced where there is no insecticide resistance.  Ntebela indicated that DDT is cheaper, lower in toxicity and lasts longer on treated surfaces as compared to other alternatives. 

He acknowledged that there are shortcomings in its use, like storage and transportation since it is bulky.

He encouraged users to ensure that there are no leakages into agricultural products and to always seek advice when necessary.  

Ntebela urged the public to give the government a second chance to work towards a Malaria free nation.  "DDT formed most part of the basis for the Global Malaria Eradication Programme of the 1950s. Indeed malaria was eradicated from North America, and some parts of Europe using DDT," he said.